Allergic rhinitis is the general name given to an allergic reaction that causes inflammation in the nasal passages - allergic being the general term for hypersensitivity to something, and rhinitis meaning inflammation in the nose.

What causes allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis occurs when people breathe in an allergen which contacts the lining of the nose, triggering an allergic event. (An allergen is a substance which causes an allergy in a hypersensitive person.) When an allergic reaction occurs, the body releases many substances, including histamine, which causes allergy symptoms. These include:

•	watering or itching of the nose

•	watering or itching of the eyes

•	tickling in the throat

•	bouts of sneezing

•	nasal congestion (in severe or ongoing cases).

In classic hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis), the most common allergen is pollen, including grass, weed and tree pollens. People suffering from this type of allergic rhinitis will be most affected when they are outdoors, particularly on warm, windy days and when pollen levels are high, for example in spring.

Dust mites, animal fur and moulds are common allergens causing allergic rhinitis that lasts throughout all seasons of the year (perenial rhinitis). People suffering from this type of allergic rhinitis will usually be most affected in the morning and the evening at home, with the symptoms subsiding during the day when people are at school or work.

How do I know if I have allergic rhinitis rather than just a cold?

When allergic rhinitis symptoms appear briefly and are not severe, it can be difficult to tell the difference between allergic rhinitis and a cold.

The difference between the two is that allergic rhinitis is recurrent, with more severe symptoms. You will also probably have more itchiness and irritation with allergic rhinitis and see a pattern emerging whereby it will occur more often at certain times of the year or in particular environments.

With allergic rhinitis, the symptoms only disappear when the allergen is taken away or treatment is administered.

How will my allergic rhinitis be treated?

Treatment for allergic rhinitis depends on the severity of your symptoms. Once the allergen or allergens are identified, your GP will discuss how you can minimise your exposure to them.

If your symptoms are occasional (for example 2-3 days per week, 3-4 times per year) and not severe, you will probably find antihistamines very effective. Most antihistamines are available over the counter and the newer ones have very few side effects. It's best to use ones that don't cause drowsiness.

If your symptoms are chronic and more severe, such as ongoing nasal congestion, an antihistamine will not be enough. Antihistamines are not very effective when the main symptom is nasal blockage, so you will need an intra-nasal corticosteroid spray if this is the case.

Steroid-based medications, such as intra-nasal sprays, are highly effective for the majority of people. These medications are anti-inflammatory and so will relieve the inflammation causing the blockage. Medications can be used on a daily basis and as a means of prevention.

If you have ongoing or severe allergic rhinitis and cannot find relief from antihistamines and steroid-based nasal sprays, you should discuss other options with your GP.

Is there any way of preventing allergic rhinitis?

Preventing allergic rhinitis can be difficult because there is a strong genetic factor.

Decreasing the risk of allergic sensitisation is the most effective strategy. Environmental changes (see box) can minimise your sensitivity to various allergens. These preventive measures should be started early in life.

Preventative measures ¤ Do not have furry animals around, particularly in the house ¤ Minimise the number of fluffy toys around the house ¤ Choose bare floorboards rather than carpet ¤ Airy, dry, sunny rooms are best ¤ Pay special attention to your child's bedding ¤ Don't use woollen underlays because they encourage dust mites

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