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Environmental allergies are generally known as allergic rhinitis. This is an allergic reaction that occurs in the nose when allergens in the air trigger the release of histamine. Histamine causes inflammation that leads to nasal congestion and swelling of the nasal membranes, which can then block or reduce normal sinus drainage.
- Seasonal, which occur mainly during pollen seasons. Common allergens are tree, grass and weed pollens.
- Perennial, which occur year round. Common allergens are mold, animal dander and dust mites.
Each patient may experience symptoms differently, but they can include:
- Sneezing
- Congestion
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose, throat, eyes and ears
- Nosebleeds
- Clear drainage from the nose
Children with perennial allergic rhinitis may also have recurrent ear infections, snoring, a habit of breathing through the mouth, fatigue and poor performance in school.
Rhinitis can result from the common cold, which causes nasal congestion often associated with colored nasal discharge, a runny nose, sneezing, a slight fever and cough. Rhinitis symptoms may also be caused by structural blockage of the nasal passage, irritants (such as cigarette smoke, strong odor or fumes, cleaning solutions and chlorine in swimming pools), medications, temperature changes and other physical factors. This is often called vasomotor rhinitis or non-allergic rhinitis.
Allergic rhinitis can lead to recurrent or chronic sinusitis. The nasal obstruction and inflammation associated with allergic rhinitis interrupts the normal clearing of mucus from your nasal passages, which causes the sinus cavities to become clogged with mucus. Common symptoms include:
- Thick yellowish/green nasal discharge
- Headache
- Facial pain
- Nasal congestion
- Loss of smell
- Fatigue
- Fever
Sinusitis may be considered acute (lasting less than 4 weeks), subacute (four to eight weeks), chronic (eight weeks or longer) or recurrent (three or more episodes of acute sinusitis per year).
After an allergy specialist has performed skin prick testing and/or blood testing to identify possible airborne allergens that trigger your rhinitis, you should avoid exposure to these allergens. Such measures may include remaining indoors when the pollen count is high and on windy days, dust-proofing the home and keeping animals out of the bedroom.
Treatment options may include the use of:
- Antihistamines
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Decongestants
Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, may be recommended if avoidance and medications are not effective.
Please visit our Tips on Environmental Allergies and Asthma for more information.
