Allergic rhinitis causes symptoms that affect the nose. It develops when the body’s immune system overreacts to something in the environment, such as dust mites or pollen from plants or trees.

Allergic rhinitis can either be seasonal or can last year-round.

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis usually happens in the spring, summer or early fall. It is usually caused by an allergy to mold, pollen or spores from trees, weeds or grass.
  • Year-round allergic rhinitis is usually caused by an allergy to dust mites, pet hair or mold.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?

  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Stuffy nose
  • Itching in the nose, eyes or throat
  • Red or watery eyes
  • Puffy eyelids
  • Cough
  • Tiredness
  • Moodiness or irritability
     

What Causes Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is caused by an allergy to something in the environment, such as:

  • Pollen, mold or spores from plants or trees
  • Pet hair or dander
  • Dust mites
  • Mold
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Diesel exhaust
  • Perfume

How is Airway Allergic Rhinitis Treated?

In some cases, allergic rhinitis does not need any treatment. Instead, symptoms may be controlled by avoiding the substance causing the allergy.

  • Staying indoors when pollen counts are high
  • Keeping windows closed in your home during allergy season
  • Keeping humidity low in your house and using air conditioning
  • Keeping pets out of the bedroom

If symptoms are not controlled by avoiding the allergen, a doctor may prescribe a medicine to reduce the symptoms.

  • Intranasal corticosteroids
  • Antihistamines
  • Decongestants
  • Nasal sprays
  • Eye drops
  • Leukotriene pathway inhibitors

When medicines don’t work, a doctor may suggest immunotherapy, such as allergy shots or a tablet, which is placed under the tongue. This may be a longer-term solution to treating symptoms.

Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for allergic rhinitis.