What Is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis consists of symptoms that occur after exposure to certain substances. This reaction is called an Allergy. Allergies can be seasonal (hay fever), especially in spring and fall for asensitivity to tree and grass pollens. Allergies can also occuryear-round (e.g., to pets or house dust mites). Having allergies tends to run in families. Allergies usually occur in people younger than 20 but can develop at any age. Allergic rhinitis is not contagious and can be controlled.
What Causes Allergic Rhinitis?
Irritants include smoke, smog, pollens, molds, and dust.
What Are the Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?
The most common symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes,scratchy throat, and runny, stuffed, and itchy nose. Other symptoms are headaches and pressure in the front of the face, and diffi culty sleeping.Long-term problems assocated with allergic rhinitis are nasal polyps (growths in the nose) and loss of the sense of smell.
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