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One of the most common forms of
rhinitis is allergic rhinitis, caused by substances called allergens,
and include airborne pollen and animal dander (dried skin flakes and
saliva), or droppings from cockroaches and dust mites. Symptoms include
sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itchiness in the nose, roof of the
mouth, throat, eyes and ears. The main treatment is the avoidance of the
identified allergen. For
symptomatic relief, one may consider the following:
ORAL AND NASAL ANTIHISTAMINES
These block histamine, one of the most
important mediators of the allergic response. Most of them are available
without a prescription. Oral antihistamines may also be combined with
decongestants to alleviate both a runny and blocked nose.
INHALED CORTICOSTEROIDS
They come in the form of nasal sprays that
reduce and control the impact of all or most of the mediators that can
cause inflammation in the nose. These improve the nasal symptoms of
allergic rhinitis, including itching, runny nose and congestion. Side
effects of using inhaled steroids include nosebleeds, dryness and sore
throat. DECONGESTANTS
They are important in the case of allergic
rhinitis because congestion is the most troublesome symptom for the
majority of patients with allergic rhinitis. They are available in both
oral and topical formulations. Topical decongestants should not be used
longer than between three and five days continuously to avoid rebound
congestion. However, you should avoid decongestants if you suffer from
high blood pressure, thyroid problems, heart disease or diabetes. For
those with these conditions, use of saline or seawater nasal sprays
would be preferable to relieve the congestion.
If self-medication fails to relieve
symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor as rhinitis symptoms can
also be associated with structural problems or polyps, which require
surgical intervention.
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