Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa that occurs in response to contact with allergens. Most often, these include plant pollen, household dust, dust mites, animal dander, or mold.
Why Allergic Rhinitis Occurs
The immune system mistakenly perceives these substances as a threat and triggers a protective reaction, resulting in inflammation of the nasal lining. This leads to characteristic symptoms that can significantly affect well-being and daily life.
Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common allergic diseases and can manifest either seasonally or throughout the entire year.
- The main cause is the body’s contact with allergens that enter the airways. In response, the immune system produces antibodies that trigger a cascade of inflammatory reactions.
- As a result, biologically active substances, such as histamine, are released, causing swelling of the mucous membrane, increased mucus secretion, and irritation of nerve endings.
- The risk of development increases with a hereditary predisposition, the presence of other allergic diseases, or prolonged exposure to high concentrations of allergens.
Symptoms
The main symptoms are related to the involvement of the nasal mucosa and the eyes. They may appear immediately after contact with an allergen or build up gradually.
The most characteristic manifestations:
Symptoms
Nasal congestion
Profuse clear discharge
Frequent sneezing
Itchy nose
Itchy and red eyes
Watery eyes (tearing)
Unlike a cold, allergic rhinitis usually does not involve a fever, and symptoms can last for weeks or even months. Often, they have a clear connection to specific conditions—for example, the flowering season or staying in a dusty room.
In some cases, additional symptoms may appear, such as a cough, a feeling of pressure in the facial area, or headaches.
Allergic Rhinitis and Its Types
Allergic rhinitis is divided into several forms depending on the causes and duration of symptoms. This classification helps the doctor assess the severity of the condition and select the optimal treatment.
Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
- Occurs during specific periods of the year, most often during plant pollination. It is also called hay fever. Symptoms recur every year at approximately the same time.
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
- Linked to constant contact with allergens present in the household, such as dust, mites, animal hair, or mold. Symptoms may persist throughout the year.
Intermittent Rhinitis
- Symptoms occur periodically and last less than 4 days per week or less than 4 weeks per year.
Persistent Rhinitis
- Symptoms persist for a long time and can significantly affect quality of life, sleep, and work capacity.
Diagnosis
Modern examination methods are used to confirm the diagnosis. They allow for the identification of not only the presence of an allergy but also the specific allergen.
Main methods:
✔ skin prick tests;
✔ blood test for specific immunoglobulin E (IgE);
✔ molecular allergy diagnostics.
A consultation with a doctor and a detailed analysis of the patient’s lifestyle are also of great importance.
A comprehensive approach allows for an accurate diagnosis and avoids incorrect treatment.
Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
- Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and controlling the disease.
- The basis of therapy consists of: antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, saline solutions for rinsing the mucosa, allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT).
- An important part of treatment is also minimizing contact with triggers.
Prevention
Prevention helps reduce the frequency of flare-ups and improve quality of life.
Key recommendations:
❀ avoid contact with allergens;
❀ perform regular wet cleaning;
❀ use air purifiers;
❀ control dust and humidity levels;
❀ follow the doctor’s recommendations.
Allergic rhinitis requires a systematic approach. With proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to significantly reduce symptoms and live without constant discomfort.
Allergist doctors at AirDOC who specialize in the treatment of allergic rhinitis
The specialists of the clinic specialize in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, conduct research, attend international conferences, practices and training, in order to bring modern and effective methods of allergy treatment to Ukraine.
Prices
For any clarifications you can contact our contact center
Allergist
Consultation
Comprehensive consultation by a specialist of the highest category
1 500 uah
Comprehensive consultation of a leading specialist, candidate of medical sciences
1 700 uah
Comprehensive consultation of an expert, doctor of medical sciences, professor
2 400 uah
Allergological consultation (with the participation of a professor / leading specialist / specialist)
3 900 uah
Consultation before ASIT
600 uah
Online consultation
Comprehensive consultation with a doctor of the highest category
1 500 uah
Comprehensive consultation of a leading specialist, candidate of medical sciences
1 700 uah
Comprehensive consultation of an expert, doctor of medical sciences, professor
2 4000 uah
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