Allergic rhinitis control in teenagers
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Allergic rhinitis, often called hay fever, is a condition where the inside of your nose becomes inflamed (swollen) and irritated after you breathe in something you are allergic to, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
Key facts
- Allergic rhinitis often starts in childhood and is very common in teenagers.
- It can interfere with sleep, school concentration, and daily activities, but it can be managed.
- With proper treatment and avoidance of triggers, most teenagers control their symptoms well.
Yes, allergic rhinitis is very common. In the UK, about 1 in 5 people have it, and many develop symptoms during their teenage years.
It can affect anyone, but it often begins in childhood and peaks during adolescence. You are more likely to have it if allergies or asthma run in your family.
Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or choking
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Feeling dizzy or faint after exposure to an allergen – these can be signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
- ⚠Symptoms that are very severe and do not improve with usual treatments
- ⚠Signs of a sinus infection, such as a high fever or thick yellow/green mucus from your nose
Common symptoms
- Sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Coughing, especially at night
- Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of your throat)
- Tiredness, because symptoms can affect sleep
Symptoms in children
- Rubbing the nose a lot (called the allergic salute)
- Sniffling
- Dark circles under the eyes (allergic shiners)
- Irritability or trouble concentrating
Symptoms in older adults
- Less typical symptoms that may be mistaken for a cold
- Reduced sense of smell
- Sinus pressure or headaches
- Dry cough or hoarseness
Causes
Main causes
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds (seasonal allergic rhinitis)
- Dust mite droppings (house dust mites are tiny bugs that live in bedding and carpets)
- Pet dander (tiny flakes of skin from cats, dogs, or other furry animals)
- Mold spores (from damp places like bathrooms or basements)
- Cockroach droppings (more common in urban areas)
Risk factors
- Having a parent or sibling with allergies or asthma
- Having asthma or eczema yourself
- Living in an area with high pollen or air pollution
- Being born during a high-pollen season
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have trouble breathing, swelling of your face or throat, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction – call emergency services immediately.
- If your symptoms are very bothersome, happen all year, or do not get better with over-the-counter treatments.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you think you have allergic rhinitis and want to find out what you are allergic to.
- If you need a long-term plan to control symptoms, especially if they affect school or sleep.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they happen, and your family history. If needed, they can arrange allergy testing to identify your specific triggers.
Tests that may be done
- Skin prick test: A small drop of an allergen is placed on your skin (usually your arm) and the skin is lightly pricked. If you are allergic, a small itchy bump appears within 15 minutes.
- Blood test: Measures the level of allergy-related antibodies in your blood (specific IgE test).
What to expect at your appointment
These tests are quick and cause only mild, temporary discomfort. The results help your doctor recommend the best ways to avoid triggers and treat your symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and avoiding things you are allergic to. Many teenagers find a combination of lifestyle changes and medications works best.
Self-care at home
- Stay indoors when pollen counts are high (check local forecasts) and keep windows closed.
- Put on sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.
- Shower and change your clothes after being outdoors on high-pollen days.
- Use a saline (salt water) nasal spray to rinse allergens out of your nose.
- Use allergy-proof covers on your mattress and pillows if dust mites are a trigger.
- Keep pets out of your bedroom if you are allergic to them.
Medical treatments
Different types of medicines can help, such as antihistamine tablets or nasal sprays. Some are available over the counter at your pharmacy. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you choose the right one. For persistent symptoms, a doctor may suggest immunotherapy (also called allergy shots or tablets) to slowly make your immune system less sensitive to the allergen. This treatment is not mentioned by brand name or dose.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed. It might be considered if you have nasal polyps (small growths inside your nose) or chronic sinusitis that does not get better with other treatments.
Living with this condition
With good management, you can do most things other teenagers do. Plan ahead for pollen season by starting your medicines before symptoms appear and checking daily pollen counts.
Lifestyle tips
- Keep a symptom diary to notice patterns and triggers.
- Use wrap-around sunglasses when outside to keep pollen away from your eyes.
- Wash your bedding in hot water (at least 60°C) once a week to kill dust mites.
- Vacuum regularly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter.
Diet and exercise
There is no special diet that cures hay fever, but eating a balanced diet helps your overall health. You can exercise normally. On high-pollen days, choose indoor activities like going to a gym or swimming.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Dealing with constant sneezing, a stuffy nose, and tiredness can be frustrating and may affect your mood or ability to focus. If you feel down, anxious, or isolated because of your symptoms, talk to a parent, school nurse, or your doctor. You are not alone, and support is available.
Prevention
You cannot prevent allergic rhinitis from developing, but you can take steps to reduce your exposure to triggers and keep symptoms under control.
Complications
If left untreated
- Sinusitis (infection of your sinuses) from blocked drainage
- Ear infections, especially in younger children
- Poor sleep, which can lead to daytime drowsiness and difficulty concentrating at school
- Worsening of asthma symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing
Long-term outlook
The good news is that with the right plan, most teenagers see a big improvement in their symptoms. Many people find that their hay fever gets milder as they grow older. You can still enjoy school, sports, and time with friends when your allergic rhinitis is well controlled.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 19, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.