Allergic rhinitis is much more than a seasonal inconvenience for millions of people around the world. It’s a condition that affects their daily lives, academic performance and overall health. By understanding the causes and characteristics of allergic rhinitis, you can make your life more comfortable.
Types of pathology
There are two types of allergic runny nose:
- Rhinitis associated with seasonal allergies: Rhinitis associated with seasonal allergies occurs at specific times of the year and is caused by the flowering of plants whose pollen is the allergen. This rhinitis is also called seasonal rhinitis.
- Rhinitis associated with household allergies: symptomatology occurs out of season, all the time or sporadically. This type of allergic rhinitis is caused by irritants permanently present in the environment: dust, chemical compounds, mold, animal hair, etc. This type of pathology is called “year-round allergic rhinitis”.
What is seasonal allergic rhinitis and why does it occur?
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory process of the nasal mucosa caused by airborne plant allergens. The main causes of its occurrence:
- tree pollen (especially in spring);
- grass pollen (in summer);
- weed pollen (late summer-early fall).
When the body comes in contact with an allergen, it releases histamine, which causes allergy symptoms.
Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis
In order to start treatment in time, it is important to know the main symptoms:
- Difficult nasal breathing, runny nose;
- active mucous discharge from the nose;
- nasal, ear, and throat congestion;
- redness of the eyes, lacrimation.
Treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis
Various methods are used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis to relieve symptoms and minimize exposure to allergens. One of the most common remedies are antihistamines, which help reduce inflammation and itching and effectively relieve symptoms such as runny nose and tearing. Nasal sprays are effective in relieving inflammation in the nasal passages and can significantly reduce allergy symptoms. These medications are often used during periods of increased pollen concentration in the air.
In addition, immunotherapy may be recommended for long-term control of seasonal allergic rhinitis, which consists of administering small doses of the allergen in order to develop resistance to it. This treatment helps to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms in the future, reducing dependence on medication during the blooming season.
How to protect yourself from an exacerbation
- Use modern mosquito nets with high filtration properties, and close windows at night (plant dusting starts at 4-5 am).
- Before going outdoors, prepare the nasal mucosa: rinse the nose with seawater solutions (sprays or dropper) and use barrier products that create a protective film on the mucosa, preventing allergens from attaching to it. If necessary, use masks, nasal respirators.
- After a walk, wash hands thoroughly, rinse nose, eyes, rinse throat, change clothes.
- Avoid walking in the afternoon, when the concentration of pollen in the air is maximum. It is best to walk in the evening or in rainy weather.
- Ventilate regularly in the evening.
- Carry out daily damp cleaning of the premises.
- Use home air purifiers and humidifiers, air conditioning systems (both at home and in the car). Be sure to monitor the condition of appliances, wash and change filters at the time.
- Before going to bed, wash your head and take a shower, so that pollen grains do not get on the pillow, linen and do not provoke an allergy attack at night.
- During the period of exacerbation of respiratory allergies, it is worth limiting the use of products that have a cross-reaction with plant pollen, or completely exclude them from the diet.
Features of nutrition in seasonal allergic rhinitis
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is often accompanied by cross-allergies to foods that may contain allergens similar to plant pollen. For example, when people are allergic to birch pollen, they may experience allergy symptoms to apples, nuts or carrots. In such cases, it is recommended to avoid foods that may cause an allergic reaction, especially during the active blooming season. It is also worth avoiding foods containing artificial additives and colorings, which can increase inflammation and worsen symptoms.
The diet for allergic rhinitis should be balanced, taking into account the body’s need for vitamins and minerals, especially during the pollen season. Eating fresh vegetables, fruits and foods high in antioxidants can help strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Physical activity in seasonal allergic rhinitis
For people with seasonal allergic rhinitis, it is important to take the right approach to physical activity, especially during periods when pollen in the air is most active. However, physical activity should not be completely excluded, as it helps to improve overall health and strengthen the immune system. It is important to remember a few rules to avoid worsening allergy symptoms:
- Avoid vigorous exercise outdoors during the peak of flowering (usually from morning to noon).
- Exercise in enclosed areas where pollen will not penetrate.
- Use masks or respirators if it is necessary to be outdoors during periods of high allergen concentration.
- Reduce the intensity of physical activity during seasons of allergy exacerbation.
Proper activity planning and mindfulness of environmental conditions can help keep you healthy with seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Conclusion
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is a common and sometimes life-limiting pathology, but with the right approach, it is possible to significantly reduce its manifestations and improve the quality of life. Knowledge of the main allergens, timely diagnosis and treatment, as well as compliance with simple preventive measures will help minimize symptoms and prevent exacerbations. Proper nutrition, adherence to daily regimen and control of physical activity during the blooming season play an important role in maintaining health. By following the recommendations of doctors and taking the necessary measures, you can easily cope with seasonal allergic rhinitis and continue to live without unnecessary discomfort.
