Nasal Congestion caused by Allergic Rhinitis
Nasal Congestion Caused by Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic Rhinitis, often referred to as ‘hay fever’, is a common, generally mild condition that occurs when allergens, such as dust, pollens and mould, irritate and inflame the lining of the nose.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, itchy eyes, nose, throat and ear and sometimes fatigue. Nasal congestion is one of the most common and detrimental symptoms as it leads to difficulty breathing, snoring andsleep disturbances. Other symptoms can be triggered by prolonged or recurrent nasal congestion.
The accumulation of mucus in the nasal passages and sinuses in the case of Allergic Rhinitis caused nasal congestion. Prolonged or severe allergic rhinitis can cause the mucosal lining of the nose and sinuses to become chronically inflamed causing respiratory symptoms.
Treatment Strategies for Nasal Congestion
In many cases of Allergic Rhinitis, treating the underlying allergen can reduce symptoms. Avoiding triggers is one of the most important things to do to reduce congestion, as well as anti-allergy medications to reduce inflammation.
- Avoiding exposure to triggers: Identifying and avoiding exposures to the known triggers including dust, pollen and mould can reduce the severity of congestion.
- Reducing exposure to irritants: Cigarette smoke and certain perfumes and cleaning products can worsen congestion.
- Humidify the air: Dry air can make symptoms worse, so using a humidifier can help to ease congestion.
- Rinsing the nasal passages: Nasal and sinus irrigation is an important aspect of treatment. It helps to wash away dust and pollen and other irritants.
- Using saline nasal sprays: Saline sprays can provide temporary relief for congestion.
- Using decongestants: Over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays can provide temporary relief for severe congestion. However, it is not recommended to use decongestants for more than three days, as it can cause rebound nasal congestion.
- Using antihistamines: Antihistamines are medications that block histamine, which is one of the mediators of allergic inflammation. It can be used to reduce inflammation in the lining of the nasal passages.
- Using corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can be used to reduce swelling of the nasal passages. They are available in a variety of topical products, including sprays and drops.