Are you often plagued by constant sneezing, blocked nasal passages, and a sensation of having a stuffy nose, along with an itchy or watery nose? If this sounds like you, you might be dealing with a condition known as rhinitis.
Rhinitis comes in two forms: allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis.
Rhinitis due to allergies is triggered by substances like moulds, pollen, and animal dander. These substances, which are typically benign, can lead to allergic responses in some individuals.
Symptoms of allergies occur due to a series of reactions initiated by the immune system. This system is responsible for regulating your body’s defence mechanisms. For example, in the case of a pollen allergy, the immune system recognises pollen as a threat or allergen. It then produces antibodies known as Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies move to cells that release histamine and other substances, resulting in allergy symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, itching, and a sensation of having mucus in the back of the throat.
Individuals suffering from allergic rhinitis are also likely to experience itchy, watery eyes (a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis) and may be more reactive to irritants like smoke, fragrances, or dry, cold air. Rhinitis can also lead to additional issues such as asthma, sinusitis, or ear infections, as well as difficulties with sleeping.
Allergic rhinitis is often referred to as hay fever but this is just one type and is seasonal i.e just summer months. It’s caused by allergens found outside like pollen. Certain individuals experience symptoms throughout the year because of allergens present indoors, including pet dander, mould and dust mites. This condition is known as perennial allergic rhinitis. You may experience either seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, or a mix of both.
The initial approach to dealing with this condition involves steering clear of substances that trigger reactions. For example, if you’re sensitive to dust mites, it’s crucial to avoid contact with them by cleaning your bed sheets in hot water and keeping fluffy things out of the bedroom. This principle applies to allergens found outside as well. Reducing your exposure during peak pollen and mold seasons can help alleviate symptoms.
At times, avoiding allergens might not be feasible, or it might not be sufficient to manage the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. In such cases, your allergist might suggest or prescribe medications or immunotherapy treatments.
Certain medications for allergic rhinitis are most effective when taken daily to manage inflammation and prevent symptoms, whereas others are used on an as-needed basis to ease symptoms.
A lot of individuals experiencing rhinitis symptoms aren’t actually allergic. If you suffer from non-allergic rhinitis, steering clear of allergens won’t make a difference in your condition. This is the reason it’s crucial to see an allergist to figure out your specific allergies and what you’re not allergic to.
Non-allergic rhinitis typically starts in adults and leads to symptoms throughout the year, with common complaints being a runny nose and congestion in the nose. Strong smells, air pollution, shifts in the weather, smoke, and other irritants can trigger these symptoms. Additionally, non-allergic rhinitis symptoms might also appear as a result of certain medications, such as some drugs for high blood pressure, birth control pills, or treatments for erectile dysfunction.
Another form of non-allergic rhinitis is triggered by the long-term use of nasal decongestant sprays like phenylephrine or otrivine. These sprays are great for short term blocked noses like with colds and sinusitis but after a week or so they start to cause damage to the lining of the nose and a rebound rhinitis. This kind of rhinitis caused by medication is known as rhinitis medicamentosa.
Hearing antihistamines and drugs that block leukotrienes usually don’t help with non-allergic rhinitis. Still, there are alternatives like using nasal corticosteroid sprays. Ipratropium nasal spray can help with a runny nose, and saline rinses can help moisturise and reduce inflammatory triggers.
If you’re experiencing issues related to the shape of your nose, such as narrow nasal passages, growths, or a misaligned nasal septum (the bone and cartilage that divide the nostrils), other treatment methods might be explored. In such situations, surgery might be required.
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