Seasonal rhinitis is due to the presence of plant pollens in the outdoor air. The plants in bloom are responsible for the pollen and symptoms it causes. The predominant seasonal antigens are three pollen (February - April), grass pollen (April - August), and wee pollen (September - October). Flowers are usually not the culprits because they are pollinated by insects such as bees.
Perennial rhinitis is caused by allergens that are present in the air year round. Examples of such allergens are dust mites, molds, animal dander and, in the years with no freezing winter temperatures, grass pollens.
Typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis include itchy watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, nasal itching, congestion, post nasal drip, headaches, dry cough, ear fullness and ringing, decreased sense of smell, taste and fatigue. Many people feel their symptoms are due to "sinus problems" or a "cold". Sinus infections and colds tend to be associated with fever and yellow to green mucous whereas allergic rhinitis is associated with clear mucous and tends to occur repeatedly throughout the year. Other findings one might see are dark circles under the eyes called allergic shiners, and a crease across the top of the nose due to chronic nasal rubbing. Common complications due to untreated allergic rhinitis include sinusitis, nasal polyps, and otitis media; people with this condition also tend to have bad breath due to the postnasal drip.
Allergic rhinitis responds to medical treatment and allergy shots. The medications commonly used include antihistamines, decongestants, and steroid sprays.
Effective means of controlling allergic rhinitis include:
- Avoidance of allergens
- Medications
- Allergy shots
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