What is Allergic Rhinitis? Causes, Symptoms, and Triggers Explained

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is a common condition. It happens when your body reacts to allergens in the air. These allergens can include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. When you breathe them in, your immune system overreacts. As a result, you may develop sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Many people call this condition hay fever, even though it is not caused by hay. Allergic rhinitis can affect people of all ages. According to the CDC, millions of people experience allergic rhinitis each year.

Common Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be mild or severe. They may last for a short time or continue for months. Often, symptoms appear soon after you are exposed to an allergen. For example, you may notice them during certain seasons or in specific places.

Sneezing, often many times in a row

Runny or stuffy nose

Itchy nose, mouth, or throat

Watery, red, or itchy eyes

Coughing or a tickle in the throat

Feeling tired or having trouble sleeping

Sometimes, allergic rhinitis can also cause headaches or ear problems. However, these symptoms are less common.

Causes and Risk Factors

Allergic rhinitis happens when your immune system reacts to harmless things in the air. These things are called allergens. For many people, pollen from trees, grass, or weeds is a main cause. In other cases, dust mites, mold, or pet dander can trigger symptoms. Your risk of allergic rhinitis is higher if you have a family history of allergies. Living in areas with high pollen counts or pollution can also increase your risk. Children and young adults are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis, but it can start at any age.

How Allergic Rhinitis is Diagnosed

Doctors diagnose allergic rhinitis by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical exam. Sometimes, your doctor will suggest allergy testing. This can include:

Skin prick tests, where small amounts of allergens are placed on your skin

Blood tests to check for allergy-related antibodies

These tests help find out what you are allergic to. Knowing your triggers can help you avoid them and manage your symptoms better.

Treatment Options

There are several ways to treat allergic rhinitis. Your doctor may suggest one or more of the following:

Avoiding allergens: Try to stay away from things that trigger your symptoms.

Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medicines can help. These include antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants.

Allergy shots (immunotherapy): These can help your body get used to allergens over time.

For many people, a mix of these treatments works best. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new medicine.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

There are simple steps you can take to reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms at home. For example, you can:

Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons

Use air filters in your home

Shower and change clothes after being outside

Wash bedding in hot water weekly

Keep pets out of bedrooms

Clean floors with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter

In addition, check local pollen counts and stay indoors when they are high. These steps can help you manage allergies at home and prevent flare-ups.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, allergic rhinitis symptoms can be hard to control. If your symptoms last for weeks or interfere with daily life, see a healthcare provider. You should also seek help if:

Over-the-counter medicines do not help

You have trouble breathing

You develop sinus pain or a fever

Early treatment can prevent complications and help you feel better sooner.

For more information, visit trusted sources like the CDC or WHO. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing allergic rhinitis.