Understanding Nasal allergies

Allergies are caused by substances called allergens and it is one of the common health problems. There are two types of allergic symptoms, one that is caused during particular season which is seasonal and the other that is caused all year long.

The most common allergens include,

• Air-borne agents (from ragweed, grass and trees)
• Furs and feathers from animals
• Dust mites
• Pests
• Certain foods
• Mold

Allergens are always not the same and not harmful for everyone but when a particular person has allergy the body thinks these allergens are harmful and create antibodies that creates the allergic reaction in the host body.

Nasal allergies – Causes, Signs and Treatment:

Causes:

When the body attacks the allergens with particular antibodies that are attached to mast cells this releases histamine and few other chemicals which thereby irritate the nasal tissue causing Nasal allergy symptoms in the particular individual. This may also lead to other health issues like asthma.

Signs:

Since the allergy affects the nasal tissue it causes physical changes like swelling of the tissue that leads to nose blockage or itchy nose. In some cases fluid discharges may occur from the nose or even down the back of the throat. This signs may occur in case of asthma and sinus problems where it is also related to the nasal allergy symptoms.

The most common symptoms include,

• Nasal congestion
• Watery discharge from the nose
• Postnasal drip or dripping at the back of the throat
• Sneezing and coughing or sore throat
• Inflammation in the nose
• Swelling of eyes, redness and watery eyes
• Itchiness of throat, eyes ,nose and even ears
• Ear congestion
• Head ache
• Sinus pain and swelling

Allergic Rhinitis/Hay fever/ Allergic sinusitis:

Allergic reactions to specific allergens are often termed as Allergic rhinitis or Hay fever. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is mostly caused by pollens and it thus occurs with the change of seasons. According to AAAAI, 10 to 30 percent of the worldwide population may also have allergic rhinitis or Hay fever.

The basic symptoms of allergic rhinitis includes the symptoms of common nasal allergies along with dark circles, eczema symptoms like dry and itchy skin that can blister and weep, hives and excessive fatigue. Fever is not a symptom of Hay fever. The constant headache and fatigue is a symptom of long term exposure to allergens. Allergic sinusitis is the inflammation of the cavities and membranes in and around nasal passages due to allergies.

Types of Allergic Rhinitis:

• Seasonal - That usually occurs during particular seasons like spring and fall season and mostly they are caused by outdoor allergens like tree pollens.
• Perennial - This can occur all year round and are mostly caused by indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander.

Risk factors for allergic rhinitis:

Certain conditions that can worsen the effects of allergens includes,

• Cigarette smoke
• Air pollutants
• Humidity
• Cold temperatures
• Chemicals
• Hairspray
• Perfumes
• Fumes

Diagnosis of Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever):

If you have minor allergies, the skin doctors will do a physical exam (allergy testing) which includes skin prick test where your doctor will place several substances onto your skin to see how your body reacts to each one. If you have allergy to those particular substance red bumps will appear, that’s when your doctor will come up with treatment and prevention plans.

In certain cases a blood test is conducted, which is otherwise called Radioallergosorbent test (RAST). It measures the amount of immunoglobulin E antibodies to particular allergens in blood.

Treatment of Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever):

The treatment of Hay fever includes providing anti histamines, decongestants, eye drops and nasal sprays recommended by your doctor. In certain cases your doctor may suggest taking immunotherapy or allergy shots. Also SLIT, (Sublingual immunotherapy) this involves placing a tablet containing a mixture of several allergens under your tongue.

Other than the above mentioned certain home remedies like using specific filter based air conditioners or dehumidifiers at home for people who get affected by seasonal allergens. Also people who are affected by indoor allergens should clean the house properly and wash sheets and blankets with hot water above 54.4 Degree Celsius.