Hayfever (Allergic Rhinitis)
Rhinitis is the inflammation of the lining of the nasal passages. Allergic rhinitis is where this inflammation is caused by an allergic reaction to common particles in the environment. The condition is characterised by a recurrent runny, stuffy, itchy nose and sneezing. The eyes, throat and ears may also be itchy.
Approximately 20% of New Zealanders suffer from allergic rhinitis. Whilst it can develop at any time of life, about one third of sufferers first develop symptoms in childhood (usually before the age of ten).
People with allergic rhinitis react to common particles in their environment, such as pollen, dust, mould or animals. Particles that elicit an allergic response are called allergens. Some people are sensitive to only one or two allergens, while others are sensitive to many.
When a person inhales the allergen that they are allergic to, antibodies react to it. An enzyme called histamine is released, causing the inflammation and symptoms characteristic of the condition.
The two main types of allergic rhinitis are:
Perennial allergic rhinitis
This occurs year round and includes reactions to allergens such as house dust, animal dander (hair, fur, feathers) and moulds. It is commonly aggravated by tobacco smoke, perfumes and air pollution.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis
This type of allergic rhinitis is often called hay fever. It most commonly occurs during spring, early summer and autumn. It is usually caused by different types of pollens from trees and grasses, as well as mould spores.
Causes
It is not known why some people are more susceptible than others to the allergens that cause allergic rhinitis. However, a person who has other allergies such as dermatitis or asthma, or who has relatives with allergies is more likely to suffer from the condition.
Symptoms
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are similar to those of the common cold but may last longer and are seasonal in occurrence. Symptoms include:
- Stuffy or running nose
- Frequent sneezing
- Itchy eyes, nose, roof of mouth, or throat
- Coughing
- Watery eyes
- Blocked nose
- Pressure in the nose and cheeks
- Ear fullness and popping
- Dizziness and/or nausea
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Headaches, earaches
- Snoring
- Nosebleeds
Diagnosis
A doctor will try to establish whether the allergic rhinitis is perennial or seasonal. They may ask when the symptoms occur and when they are most severe. It may be advisable to keep a diary, noting when the reaction occurred. An examination of the nasal passages may be performed and blood tests taken.
If allergic rhinitis causes significant interference to daily life the doctor may refer the patient to an allergy specialist (allergist). They are likely to perform a series of skin prick tests to determine which allergens cause the most sensitivity.
Treatment
Treatment is aimed at minimising inflammation and reducing symptoms. This may be achieved by avoiding allergens, with medications or with immunotherapy.
Avoiding Allergens
Minimising or avoiding contact with problem allergens can be effective in minimising symptoms. Tips for avoiding allergens include:
Pollen:
- Avoid open grassy areas, particularly in the evenings and on windy days
- Using a pollen filter in your car
- Keep windows closed
- Wear sunglasses
- Use air conditioning
- Be aware of pollen counts and stay indoors when counts are high.
Household dust mites:
- Remove items that collect dust
- Use an efficient vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter
- Wash bedding frequently in hot water
- Use dust mite covers on mattresses and pillow.
Animals:
- Do not keep pets.
- If pets are kept, keep them outside and wash them regularly.
Other allergens:
- Avoid smoky environments.
- Avoid perfumes.
Medications
Medications may be prescribed to treat the condition. Antihistamines and decongestants, taken in tablet form or as nasal sprays or drops, can help to relieve symptoms. Antihistamines help reduce the sneezing, runny nose and itchiness, while decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion.
It is advisable to avoid using over the counter nasal decongestants for longer than five to seven days. They may relieve symptoms at first but after this time the nose may become increasingly congested and more frequent doses of the spray or drops are required. This is known as "rebound" congestion.
When eye redness and irritation is a problem, the use of eye drops may be recommended.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and to help prevent attacks from occurring. These do not cause worsening of nasal congestion and can be particularly effective when used as a longer term preventative at times when symptoms are expected to be most problematic eg: spring and early summer.
In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be given. These help to reduce inflammation and therefore reduce symptoms. These injections are given into a muscle (usually in the upper arm) and their effects can last for several weeks or even months. Whilst they can be very effective, corticosteroid injections for the treatment of allergic rhinitis should be used with caution.
Immunotherapy:
This treatment may be considered for people whose allergic rhinitis is not controlled by avoiding allergens or through the use of medications. Immunotherapy involves administering a series of injections that can desensitise a person to certain allergens. Increasing amounts of the allergen causing the problem is injected under the skin over time. This helps to reduce the immune response that triggers the body's allergic reaction. Injections may need to be given every few months for up to two or three years for this treatment to be affective.
Whilst this treatment is not effective in all cases, the majority of people who undertake it show some degree of improvement.
Information and Support
For further information and support about allergic rhinitis, please contact:
Information Support Line
Ph: (09) 303 2024 (within Auckland)
Freephone: 0800 34 0800 (outside of Auckland)
References
Allergy New Zealand (2001) Rhinitis and hay fever. (Pamphlet) Allergy New Zealand, Auckland.
Auckland Allergy Clinic (Date unknown) Allergic Rhinitis. Auckland Allergy Clinic.http://www.allergyclinic.co.nz/guides/16.html
Everybody (2005) Allergic Rhinitis and Hay fever. Auckland: MediMedia (NZ) Ltd.
http://www.everybody.co.nz/page-c44773ba-3b6c-4f8e-b3db-1a1469a7d576.aspx
Last Reviewed – 10/04/07