Severe Allergic rhinitis
What is Severe Allergic Rhinitis?
Severe allergic rhinitis is a type of allergic reaction that causes severe inflammation of the nose and surrounding tissue. This condition can disrupt an individual's daily routines and lead to many different problems. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, postnasal drip, and facial pain. Severe allergic rhinitis can also cause fatigue, sinus infections, wheezing, and other respiratory tract symptoms.
What Causes Severe Allergic Rhinitis?
Severe allergic rhinitis is caused by an allergic reaction to certain environmental factors. The most common allergens are dust mites, pet dander, pollens, molds, and certain foods. Other factors such as climate change, air pollution, and smoking can also aggravate mild-to-severe allergic reactions.
Symptoms of Severe Allergic Rhinitis
The symptoms of severe allergic rhinitis vary depending on the severity of the allergic reaction. The most common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Facial pain
- Fatigue
- Sinus infections
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
Treatment of Severe Allergic Rhinitis
Treatment for severe allergic rhinitis depends on the severity of the reaction. Allergy medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and nasal sprays are typically used to treat the symptoms. Allergy shots and other immunotherapy treatments may also be recommended for long-term relief. In cases of severe allergic reactions, an epinephrine injection may be necessary. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Prevention of Severe Allergic Rhinitis
The best way to prevent severe allergic rhinitis is to avoid the environmental factors that trigger an allergic reaction. This includes avoiding exposure to dust mites, pet dander, pollens, molds, and certain foods. Other prevention tactics include taking a daily antihistamine, regularly changing bedding and vacuuming carpets, using an air purifier, and avoiding smoking. In cases of severe allergic reactions, an epinephrine auto-injector should always be kept on hand.