Allergies
The main
cause of nasal allergies is an interaction between cells lining the nose and
allergens. Common allergens include pollens, dust, dust mites, molds, and
animal dander.
Most of the long-term effects
occur in those who have prolonged or frequent periods of allergic disease.
The presence of allergic rhinitis increases the risk of asthma four times.
People with chronic allergies, such as those who are sensitive to dust, are
more likely to develop chronic long-term symptoms.
Individuals who have allergic disease for long periods, such as spring
through fall, may also develop long-term symptoms. These long-term symptoms
include:
- chronic cough
- constant nasal congestion
- excessive, thick nasal mucus
- facial pain
- fatigue
- loss of sense of smell
- sinus headaches
- snoring, in persons with
chronic nasal congestion
Nasal allergies can predispose an
individual to sinus infections and asthma. Lost productivity costing
billions of dollars per year occurs because of allergic disease.
The
symptoms of a nasal allergy are: · clear, watery nasal discharge · coughing
· itching deep within the ear · itching, watering, and redness of the eyes ·
nasal itching · nasal stuffiness with subsequent difficulty breathing ·
sneezing
Late-phase reactions are very similar. The individual who has chronic
allergy exposure may start to see other symptoms, such as:
- more
constant nasal stuffiness
- reduced sense of smell
- sinus headaches, usually in the forehead, cheek, and between the eyes
- a thicker, clear-to-white mucus secretion
An individual with chronic allergies may also start to be affected by
nonallergic stimuli. These can include dry air, cold air, smoke, and
particles in the air.
Take this preliminary to
see if your condition could respond to treatment.
 Diagnosis/Treatment
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