severe allergies

SYMPTOMS, SIGNS AND MANAGEMENT

Allergic rhinitis is a group of symptoms that occur when you breathe in an allergen- such as dust, animal dander, or pollen. This type of allergic rhinitis is commonly called hay fever, and may be seasonal allergy or non-seasonal (perennial).

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms that occur shortly after you come into contact with the substance you are allergic to may include:

• Itchy nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
• Diminished sense of smell
• Running nose (rhinorrhea)
• Sneezing
• Conjunctivitis with watery and itchy eyes.  

• Blocked nose

Other symptoms that may develop later include:

• Clogged ears
• Dark circles under the eyes
• swelling under the eyes
• Headaches

DIAGNOSIS

This is established mainly from the history. Often the patient will present with the typical symptoms of nasal stuffiness associated with itching and sneezing. Much as these symptoms are often seasonal, and worse over spring, they occasional occur in some patients throughout the year. There often is a family history of the disease, but in some cases the condition is de novo.

Physical examination also assists showing bogginess of the nasal tissues, excessive secretions and pallor of the inner lining. Skin tests are a definitive form of investigation.

TREATMENT

LIFESTYLE AND AVOIDING ALLERGENS

Avoidance the pollens that cause your symptoms is very helpful. Though it is impossible to avoid all pollen, steps can be taken to reduce your exposure.Pets and grass are a major source of allergens. Exposure to a dusty environment can also be minimised.

MEDICATION

ANTIHISTAMINES

Antihistamines work well for treating allergy symptoms. Many antihistamines taken by mouth can be bought without a prescription.

• Some can cause sleepiness and should be taken at bedtime.
• They should also not be used during pregnancy.

CORTICOSTEROIDS

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays are the most effective treatment for allergic rhinitis.
• They are also safe for children and adults.

ALLERGY SHOTS

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are sometimes used but their long-term success is doubtful.

COMPLICATIONS

Untreated allergic rhinitis can have serious complications.

• Sinusitis is fairly common, and presents with persistent frontal headaches, greenish nasal discharge and fever. Untreated, this may lead to meningitis and brain abscesses.
• Ear infections are often encountered, and often present with an earache, deafness and a purulent discharge.
• Nasal polyps presenting with grape-like growths in the nose often cause persistent nasal obstruction that may require surgery.

PROGNOSIS

Most symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be controlled. Some people may outgrow an allergy as the immune system becomes less sensitive to the trigger.

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