Rhinitis is inflammation of the mucous lining of the nose. Allergic Rhinitis is caused by allergens. Allergic Rhinitis affects more than 40 million people in the United States alone, and even more with people who have occasional symptoms.

 

 

There are two types of Allergic Rhinitis:

People who have Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, also known as Intermittent Allergic Rhinitis, are allergic to pollen or mould and only get their symptoms during certain times during the year.

 

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) Symptoms:
·     Runny nose. Happens soon after breathing in the allergen.
·     Postnasal drip. It can feel like a tickle in your throat which you’ll cough to clear up.
·     Repetitive sneezing. Happens almost immediately after you breath in the allergen.
·     Watery eyes
·     Itchy eyes, nose, ears, and itchy throat
·     Nasal congestion
·     The most common symptom for children is a stuffy nose.

 

Perennial Allergic Rhinitis’ symptoms can be more severe and can have the symptoms of those who have chronic sinusitis, recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, and vasomotor rhinitis. The symptoms are usually throughout the entire year. They are usually runny or watery nose, nasal blockage, and decreased sense of smell.  

The symptoms that may take longer to develop are:
·     Eyes sensitive to light.
·     Loss of energy.
·     Loss of sleep.
·     Feeling grumpy or moody.
·     Pressure in the ear.
·     Discomfort in the face.

 

Our immune system fights off bacteria and viruses in our bodies. An allergic reaction happens when our immune system fights off normal things that enter our system. Just like when our immune system fights off viruses, we get the symptoms of a cold, like coughing. Some people, when they breath in pollen or mould, their immune systems attack it and cause symptoms.