Allergic Rhinitis

Gambaran keseluruhan

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the inside of the nose caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen, dust mites, mould, or pet dander. It is often called hay fever, but it can occur all year round.

Yes, allergic rhinitis affects millions of people worldwide. In the UK, it is estimated that 1 in 5 people experience symptoms.

It can affect anyone, but it is more common in people with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema. Symptoms often begin in childhood or early adulthood.

Gejala

Gejala biasa

• Sneezing, especially after waking up or outdoors
• Runny or blocked nose
• Itchy nose, roof of mouth, throat, or eyes
• Watery, red, or swollen eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
• Coughing, especially at night

Gejala pada kanak-kanak

• Snoring or difficulty sleeping due to a blocked nose
• Mouth breathing or frequent nose rubbing
• Poor concentration or fatigue during the day
• Ear infections or hearing problems

Gejala pada orang dewasa yang lebih tua

• Symptoms may be milder or mistaken for a cold or sinus infection
• Dry nose or crusting instead of runny nose
• Worsening of asthma or breathing problems
• Fatigue and reduced quality of life

Punca

Punca utama

• Inhaled allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds (seasonal allergic rhinitis)
• House dust mites (often cause year-round symptoms)
• Mould spores from damp indoor or outdoor areas
• Pet dander from cats, dogs, or other animals
• Cockroach droppings (more common in urban environments)

Faktor risiko

• Family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema
• Having asthma or atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• Exposure to cigarette smoke or air pollution
• Working in environments with high allergen exposure (e.g., farming, woodworking)

Bila perlu berjumpa doktor

Jumpa doktor dengan segera jika:

• If you have severe symptoms that affect your breathing, sleep, or ability to work or go to school
• If you develop a high fever, facial pain, or thick nasal discharge that lasts more than a week
• If over-the-counter treatments are not helping or you need to use them every day

Buat temujanji rutin jika:

• If your symptoms are mild but bothersome and last for several weeks
• If you want to confirm the diagnosis or identify your triggers through testing

Diagnosis

Your doctor will usually diagnose allergic rhinitis based on your symptoms and a discussion of your triggers and family history. They may refer you to an allergy specialist if the cause is unclear or symptoms are severe.

Ujian yang mungkin dilakukan

• Skin prick test: placing a tiny amount of common allergens on your skin to see if you have a reaction
• Blood test (specific IgE test): measures the level of allergy-related antibodies in your blood

Apa yang diharapkan semasa temujanji anda

During your appointment, your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they occur, and what makes them better or worse. They may look inside your nose with a small lighted tool (nasal endoscopy). If tests are needed, they are quick and usually done in clinic. You may be asked to keep a symptom diary.

Rawatan

Treatment for allergic rhinitis focuses on managing symptoms and reducing exposure to allergens. Options include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, immunotherapy (allergy shots).

Penjagaan diri di rumah

• Avoid allergens as much as possible, such as staying indoors on high-pollen days and using dust-mite-proof covers on bedding
• Use saline (salt water) nasal sprays or rinses to wash allergens out of your nose
• Keep windows closed and use an air purifier with a HEPA filter
• Wash clothes and bedding regularly in hot water
• Take a shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen

Rawatan perubatan

Medications for allergic rhinitis include antihistamines (available as tablets, syrups, or nasal sprays), corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation, and decongestants for short-term relief of a blocked nose. These are available over the counter or on prescription. For more severe cases, your doctor may recommend immunotherapy, where you are given gradually increasing doses of the allergen to build tolerance. Treatment plans are tailored to your specific symptoms and triggers.

Bila pembedahan dipertimbangkan?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered if you have nasal polyps (benign growths) or structural problems in the nose that make symptoms worse, such as a deviated septum. Surgery is only recommended after trying other treatments.

Hidup dengan keadaan ini

Living with allergic rhinitis means planning ahead for allergy seasons. Check pollen forecasts and adjust your activities. Keep your home allergen-free by cleaning regularly and reducing clutter where dust can collect. Always carry your medication, especially during high-pollen times.

Tip gaya hidup

• Monitor pollen counts and stay indoors when they are high
• Use an air purifier and keep windows closed in spring and summer
• Dry laundry indoors to avoid pollen sticking to clothes
• Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth instead of dusting
• Consider using allergy-proof covers on pillows and mattresses

Diet dan senaman

No specific diet is proven to prevent or treat allergic rhinitis, but eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports overall health. Exercise is fine, but try to do it indoors when pollen counts are high. Wearing sunglasses outdoors can also protect your eyes from pollen.

Kesihatan mental dan kesejahteraan emosi

Chronic symptoms like a blocked nose, sneezing, and fatigue can affect sleep, concentration, and mood. It is common to feel frustrated or low. If these feelings persist, talk to your doctor. They can offer support, and you can also reach out to a counsellor or mental health helpline. You are not alone.

Pencegahan

Allergic rhinitis cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce the chance of developing it and manage triggers effectively. Early treatment may help prevent it from becoming more severe.

Vaksin

There is no vaccine to prevent allergic rhinitis. However, immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) can reduce sensitivity to specific allergens over time and may be considered a form of treatment that modifies the allergy.

Program saringan

Routine screening for allergic rhinitis is not recommended. Testing is done when symptoms are present and the cause is unclear.

Komplikasi

Jika tidak dirawat

• Chronic sinus infections and sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)
• Sleep problems, fatigue, and reduced concentration at work or school
• Worsening of asthma symptoms or new onset of asthma
• Ear infections, especially in children
• Nasal polyps (soft growths inside the nose)

Pandangan jangka panjang

With proper management, most people with allergic rhinitis can control their symptoms and live normally. Many people find that symptoms improve over time, especially as they learn to avoid triggers. Treatment options are effective and safe, and ongoing research continues to improve care. You can expect to have good days and bad days, but you don't have to let it take over your life.

Cari sokongan

Organisasi antarabangsa

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ↗
• World Allergy Organization ↗

Organisasi tempatan

• Allergy UK ↗ · United Kingdom
• NHS (National Health Service) ↗ · United Kingdom

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