ALLERGIC RHINITIS (HAY FEVER)

Allergic rhinitis can be inherited. If both parents are allergic, their children may develop allergy at approximately 50%. The disease does not occur right after birth. Usually, patients have their first complaints at the age of 2 or above. Allergy may occur in certain periods such as spring and autumn, or sometimes all months of the year. For example, dust allergy is seen in all periods of the year, and pollen allergy is often seen in spring months.

Patients have complaints such as runny, itchy, and blocked nose, sneeze, itchy throat, and watering eyes. The severity of allergy can vary from person to person. While some patients have a mild allergy, this disease may be severe enough for others to affect their school and working life, and impair the quality of life. Patients who have complaints related to allergic rhinitis undergo ear, nasal, throat, head, and neck examination. It should be checked if these complaints are caused by an infection or a structural disorder or not.

How is the allergic rhinitis diagnosed?

Allergic skin tests and blood tests are helpful for diagnosis. Skin test is called the Prick test. This test measures the level of allergic reaction by way of inserting the allergen extracts such as various plants, trees, mould, fungus, and dust under the skin. Total and specific immunoglobulins are checked in blood tests. 

What is the treatment for allergic rhinitis?

The first step in treatment is the patient’s avoidance of these allergens and prevention measures. These measures are as follows:

• To avoid dusty and smoky environment,
• To regulate the heat and humidity,
• To stay indoors as far as possible during the seasons when there is a lot of pollen, and keep the doors and windows closed,
• Not to use carpets, rugs, and blankets, and to use leather, vinlex, and plasticware instead,
• Not to keep plants or pets at home, and
• To use personalised quilt covers and sheets, and avoid furry toys.

If the prevention measures are insufficient, it will be necessary to begin allergy medication. Vaccines for allergic rhinitis have been developed in recent years, and patients who have not responded to the prevention measures and medications can be administered vaccines.