Allergic rhinitis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is an inflammatory response to environmental allergens that involves the upper respiratory tract. Nurses are often the first healthcare professionals to encounter patients with this condition. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for allergic rhinitis in the quick guide below.
Last updated: December 4, 2023Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory response to environmental allergens that involves the upper respiratory tract. It is often referred to as hay fever and can be seasonal or perennial.
Common environmental allergens that can trigger allergic rhinitis include mold spores, pet dander, pollen from trees, grass, and weeds, and dust mites that live in carpets, drapes, bedding, and furniture.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include itchy/watery eyes, itchy/sore throat, frequent ear infections, stuffy or runny nose, and sneezing.
Treatment options for allergic rhinitis include antihistamines, intranasal glucocorticoids, sympathomimetic decongestants, immunotherapy, and saline nasal irrigation.