Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction of the nasal mucosa to a wide variety of airborne substances, including pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can vary in severity, but they typically include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and watery eyes. The diagnosis of allergic rhinitis can be confirmed by an allergist, ENT (otolaryngologist) or a primary care physician, and treatment may include antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays.

Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal airway. Symptoms may include a runny nose, stuffy nose, and sneezing, among others. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis tend to be seasonal, while some people can suffer year-round.

Allergic Rhinitis Types

There are two types of allergic rhinitis, seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is typically caused by pollens in the air and is most common in the spring and fall. Perennial allergic rhinitis is caused by irritants in the air that are present all year round.

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Allergic Rhinitis Diagnosis

Allergic rhinitis is diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history. Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and medications and perform a physical examination of your head and neck. Some things your doctor will ask you about include:​


  • What allergic rhinitis symptoms you are experiencing
  • When your symptoms are worse or better
  • How severe your allergic rhinitis symptoms are
  • What allergic rhinitis treatment you have tried
treatment of allergic rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis Treatment

Treatment for allergic rhinitis can include antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroid sprays. You can try to avoid the alle

ongestion, and itchy eyes, and your doctor can help determine the best regimen for you. For severe or persistent allergic rhinitis despite medical therapy, getting allergy tested and starting immunotherapy, including allergy shots or allergy drops, can help.


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Allergic Rhinitis Prevention

The best way to prevent allergic rhinitis is to avoid allergens. If you have an allergic rhinitis diagnosis, it is important to avoid allergens that trigger your symptoms. You can find out what your allergens are by taking an allergy test.


It's not that we don't love our pets, but wouldn't you just love them a little more if you didn't feel ill around them? If you're tired of the constant sneezing and congestion, Dr. Thomas S. Higgins, MD, MSPH is the sinus doctor you need. We offer tailored treatment plans, allergy testing, and immunotherapy shots and drops to get you on road to improvement. 

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