Rhinitis is inflammation of the nose and nasal passages that causes sneezing, itching, runny nose, and postnasal drip (the sensation that mucus is draining from the sinuses down the back of your throat). It can be triggered by an allergic reaction or from nonallergic sources.
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system overreacts to specific allergens, such as pollen, dust, and dander from certain animals. The body releases histamine, which irritates the delicate linings of the nose and sinuses.비염한의원
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis can range from mild to severe and may be seasonal or perennial in nature. The condition is most common in people between the ages of 10 and 50.
A history and physical examination are key to diagnosing allergic rhinitis. Second-generation oral antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids are the primary treatments used for this disorder. Some patients may also be candidates for allergy immunotherapy.
The most important step in managing a patient with allergic rhinitis is to eliminate the triggers that cause symptoms. This is done through a combination of medications and avoidance measures.
If symptoms do not respond to these treatments, skin prick tests or allergen-specific IgE testing can confirm the presence of an allergy. This test is not required in all cases.
Allergy Immunotherapy – a long-term treatment that helps prevent or reduce the severity of an allergic reaction to specific allergens by changing how the immune system reacts to these allergens. It is effective in many patients who do not respond to medications or have allergic reactions to multiple allergens.
Sublingual immunotherapy involves daily administration of the allergens in liquid or tablet form that is placed under the tongue. The dosage is gradually increased over several weeks to reach a uniform dose. This is usually done in conjunction with an antihistamine that also contains the allergen.
It is a safe and effective treatment for most patients. However, it is not recommended for patients who have severe asthma or active oral ulcers.
Intranasal Corticosteroids – these medications are often prescribed for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis and can help to alleviate symptoms. These drugs are most effective in reducing nasal congestion, sneezing and itching.
Nasal steroids are also useful in preventing or controlling polyps, which are small swellings on the inside of the nose and sinuses that can block airflow. In addition, they may prevent or reduce inflammation in the nasal cavities and improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Medications that can help to reduce rhinitis symptoms include antibiotics and topical nasal corticosteroids (prescription sprays or drops). The use of antihistamines, decongestants and other medicines is also helpful.
Nonallergic rhinitis happens in many people who do not have allergies. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to fumes or smoke, hormonal changes, and lingering health problems such as an underactive thyroid or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The main symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis are nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and postnasal drip. Some of these symptoms can be relieved by over-the-counter nasal strips, saline sprays and drops.라경찬한의원