Are you constantly feeling congested, sneezing a lot, or having a runny nose? These are symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Learn more about what causes it and how to treat it in this article!
What is allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergy that occurs when the body overreacts to particles in the air that it perceives as harmful. These particles, or allergens, can be anything from pollen and dust to pet dander and mold. When these allergens come into contact with the body, they trigger an immune response in which histamine and other chemicals are released in an attempt to protect the body. This release of chemicals causes the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, which include sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.
Got more questions about rhinitis? Take a look at our FAQs.
What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can vary from person to person, but they typically include:
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Swollen, itchy eyelids
What are the risk factors for allergic rhinitis?
There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing allergic rhinitis, including:
- Having a family history of allergies: If you have parents or siblings with allergies, you’re more likely to develop allergies yourself.
- Being exposed to allergens: Allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander can trigger an allergic reaction.
- Having a weakened immune system: If you have a condition that weakens your immune system, you’re more likely to develop allergies.
- Being pregnant: Pregnancy can cause changes in the body that make you more susceptible to allergies.
Are there any complications of allergic rhinitis?
While allergic rhinitis is generally not a serious condition, there are some potential complications that can occur as a result of the condition. If left untreated, allergic rhinitis can lead to sinus infections, ear infections, and even asthma. Additionally, people with allergic rhinitis are at an increased risk for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While these complications are rare, it is important to be aware of them and to seek treatment if you think you may be suffering from allergic rhinitis.
How is allergic rhinitis treated?
There are a number of different treatments available for allergic rhinitis, and the best course of treatment will vary from person to person. The most important thing is to avoid the triggers that cause your symptoms.
If you can’t avoid your triggers, there are a number of medications available that can help relieve your symptoms. These include antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and leukotriene inhibitors. Some people may also need allergy shots (immunotherapy) to help reduce their sensitivity to allergens.
Is allergic rhinitis curable?
While there is no cure for allergic rhinitis, there are treatments available that can help to control the symptoms. These include over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and nasal steroids, as well as allergy shots. If you suffer from allergic rhinitis, it is important to avoid triggers such as pollen and pet dander. With proper treatment, you can manage your symptoms and live a normal life.
How do you treat rhinitis naturally?
There are many ways to treat rhinitis naturally, and the best approach depends on the individual. Some people find relief from using a neti pot to rinse debris and mucus from their nasal cavity with a saltwater solution. Others find that taking supplements like quercetin or butterbur help to reduce symptoms. Still others find that making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers and managing stress, is the best approach.
What is quercetin?
Quercetin is a type of flavonoid, which is a class of phytonutrients found in plants. It’s one of the most abundant flavonoids in the human diet and can be found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as in green tea and red wine.
Health benefits attributed to quercetin include reducing inflammation, protecting against heart disease and cancer, and improving blood sugar control. Additionally, quercetin has been shown to have allergy-fighting properties, making it a popular supplement for people with seasonal allergies or hay fever.
While quercetin supplements are widely available, it’s also possible to increase your intake of this nutrient by eating foods that are rich in it. Good sources of quercetin include apples, onions, berries, kale, and tomatoes.
What is butterbur?
Butterbur is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a natural treatment for allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Butterbur extract is thought to work by blocking histamine, a substance that your body produces in response to allergens.
A number of studies have found that butterbur can be effective in treating allergic rhinitis. In one study, people who took butterbur extract for four weeks had significantly less symptoms than those who took a placebo. Another study found that butterbur was more effective than cetirizine (an over-the-counter antihistamine) in reducing sneezing, runny nose, and itchiness.
What foods should you avoid if you have rhinitis?
If you have allergic rhinitis, there are certain foods that you should avoid in order to keep your symptoms under control. These include:
- Dairy products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy products can trigger mucus production, which can exacerbate your symptoms.
- Eggs: Eggs are another common allergen that can trigger an increase in mucus production.
- Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds contain oils that can trigger an inflammatory response, making your symptoms worse.
- Shellfish: Shellfish is a common allergen that can cause a severe reaction in some people with allergies. If you have allergic rhinitis, it’s best to avoid shellfish altogether.
- Soy: Soybeans and soy products contain compounds that can mimic the effects of histamine, which can worsen your symptoms.
Our doctors are always ready to address any concerns you may have about allergic rhinitis, or almost any other condition.
How EVA Teleconsult can help manage the effects of allergic rhinitis
EVA Teleconsult’s doctors are always glad to help patients manage many kinds of chronic conditions, including allergic rhinitis. That’s because all of our patients always receive the following:
- Timely appointments – No more time wasted while waiting outside a doctor’s office. With us, appointments begin right when they’re supposed to, even if they’re made the same day.
- Guaranteed 30-minute consultation times – No more rushing or quickly dashed off prescriptions with no explanations. Our doctors take the time needed to give you information about your concerns, and are open to answering all your questions.
- 5-star ratings for our doctors – Because our doctors know how to explain things in a way patients can understand, we frequently get positive feedback from them.
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