Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by exposure to allergens (pollen, house-dust mites, animal dander/epidermis, mold, etc.). It presents with sneezing, itching, watery nasal discharge, and congestion. It often accompanies allergic conjunctivitis and may coexist with bronchial asthma.
Seasonal (pollinosis): pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds (peaks during “flowering” periods).
Perennial: house-dust mites, animal dander, molds, cockroaches.
Occupational: workplace allergens (flour, latex, chemical aerosols, etc.).
Frequent sneezing; itching in the nose and palate.
Watery rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell.
Tearing, eye redness and itching (allergic conjunctivitis).
Cough and post-nasal drip (mucus down the back of the throat).
In children: mouth breathing, “allergic shiners” under the eyes, a horizontal nasal crease from frequent nose rubbing.
Shortness of breath, wheezing.
Generalized swelling of lips, eyelids, tongue; difficulty swallowing/speaking.
Suspected anaphylaxis.
In these situations call emergency services at 1-03/112 (Armenia).
Consultation with an allergist/ENT; assessment of symptoms and seasonality.
Skin prick tests with allergens or measurement of specific IgE in blood.
Rhinoscopy (nasal exam); CT of paranasal sinuses if complications are suspected.
Exclude other causes: viral rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, medication-induced rhinitis.
Allergen avoidance
Pollen: plan outings outside peak times, keep windows closed on windy days, shower after being outdoors, consider glasses/mask.
Dust/mites: regular damp cleaning, protective encasings for mattresses/pillows, wash bedding at ≥60 °C, HEPA filters, minimize dust-collectors (carpets, heavy curtains).
Animals: limit contact, zone living spaces, use air filtration.
Medications (prescribed by a physician, especially for children/pregnancy)
Intranasal corticosteroid sprays — first-line for moderate/severe disease.
Second-generation antihistamines (oral or nasal/ophthalmic) for rapid control of itch, sneezing, tearing.
Combination nasal sprays (antihistamine + steroid) for pronounced symptoms.
Saline solutions/nasal irrigation as supportive therapy.
Decongestants (vasoconstrictor drops) — no longer than 3–5 days to avoid rebound/medication-induced rhinitis.
As indicated: leukotriene receptor antagonists, cromones, anti-allergic eye drops.
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT)
Subcutaneous or sublingual therapy with your specific allergen.
Course lasts 3–5 years; reduces sensitivity and the risk of progression to asthma.
Works best when sensitization is clearly confirmed (pollen, mites, etc.).
Keep a “symptom diary” and note triggers/seasons.
Use pollen forecasts/apps and plan activities accordingly.
Maintain indoor humidity at 40–50%; air out rooms outside pollen peaks.
Avoid tobacco smoke and strong fragrances/aerosols.
Pediatric therapy is individualized with emphasis on safe formulations and dosing; environmental control is crucial.
During pregnancy/lactation, any medication must be approved by a physician; local therapies and strict trigger control are often preferred.
Allergist-immunologist, otorhinolaryngologist (ENT), pediatrician (for children). If asthma is present — pulmonologist.