Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction to particles such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mould. It causes inflammation inside the nose and can affect your eyes, throat, and sinuses too.

Allergic rhinitis occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. Common triggers include:

• Pollen (from trees, grasses, and weeds)
• House dust mites
• Animal fur or dander
• Mould spores
  

• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose
• Itchy nose, eyes, throat or ears
• Watery or red eyes
• Post-nasal drip (mucus in the throat)
• Tiredness due to poor sleep
• Reduced sense of smell
  

• Seasonal: Usually caused by pollen and occurs during spring and summer
• Perennial: Caused by year-round allergens like dust mites or pet dander
  

• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
• Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
• Use air purifiers and regularly clean your home
  

• Antihistamines (e.g. cetirizine, loratadine) help relieve sneezing and itching
• Steroid nasal sprays (e.g. fluticasone, mometasone) reduce inflammation
• Decongestants for short-term use
• Eye drops for itchy or watery eyes
  

In some cases, a course of allergy shots or tablets (under specialist care) can help desensitise your immune system

• Monitor pollen forecasts and plan ahead
• Use barrier balms (like Vaseline) around the nostrils
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes
• Rinse your nose with saline to clear allergens

• Symptoms are severe or long-lasting
• Over-the-counter treatments don’t help
• You have asthma or frequent sinus infections
• You’re considering immunotherapy
  

Talk to your GP or pharmacist for advice

Useful websites:

• NHS: www.nhs.uk
• Allergy UK: www.allergyuk.org
• Asthma + Lung UK: www.asthmaandlung.org.uk