Suffering from allergic rhinitis.

ALLERGIC RHINITIS WHAT IS AN ALLERGY? The body has its own defense mechanism to fight against various incoming germs (bacteria,viruses) or substances (chemicals,toxins). This defense system is known as immunity and the foreign substances are generally known as antigens. In response to these antigens, the body prepares antibodies, a substance to fight against the antigens. However,at times this immune system may over react and cause havoc to the body. This may happen to some people in response to some antigens. This over reaction of the immune system is called allergy, which instead of defending the body causes self- destructive reactions called allergic reactions. Antigens in the case of allergic reactions are known as allergens. Allergy does not happen to everybody; one allergen may not cause allergy to everybody. Allergy can affect any part of the body Eyes- Itching, watering from eyes. Nose- Sneezing, running nose, itching, blocking Skin- Rashes, eczema Lungs- Bronchial asthma WHAT HAPPENS IN THE BODY? When an allergen enters the body, antibodies are produced (a substance to fight antigens). These antibodies are proteins commonly known as immunoglobulins (Ig- which are different types A,E,O,M etc). IgE when produced sits in the surface of a particular white blood cell (WBC) –mast cell. This is the preparation for allergic reaction- sensitization. The next time the same allergen enters the body, it causes bursting of mast cells, triggering off an allergic reaction. Mast cells liberate horde of chemicals which cause symptoms like sneezing, running nose, watery eyes, itching etc or inflammation that is pain, swelling and redness. Usual Allergens Indoor allergens- Dust dust mites found in mattresses and pillows, animal dander and fur, fungal molds, cigarette smoke, wool, leather Outdoor allergens- Pollen, smoke, pollution, Chemicals. Drugs, cosmetics Metals, weather change Food allergens- Milk, Egg, Fish. Nuts The best treatment of allergy is AVOIDANCE OF ALLERGENS HOW TO TEST FOR ALLERGIES Skin prick test- Small amounts of commonly troublesome allergens are pricked into the skin, if the person is allergic- a small swelling on the skin will be noticed. Specialised blood test to determine allergic sensitization WHAT IS ALLERGIC RHINITIS? In simple words it, is the allergy of the nose and rhinitis is inflammation in the nose. If your nose is blocked or running with clear watery secretions, or you keep sneezing and your eyes may be itching and watery, then you probably have allergic rhinitis. The common cold or flu is not allergic rhinitis it is usually due to a viral infection. TYPES OF ALLERGIC RHINITIS ◙ Seasonal/ Intermittent- < 4 days/ weeks & < 4 weeks (occurs at specific times of the year) ◙ Persistent/ Perennial- > 4 days/ weeks & > 4 weeks (occurs all year round, but maybe aggravated during some seasons) It maybe mild, moderate or severe. TREATMENT 1.) PREVENTION INSIDE THE HOUSE ◙ Use roll down shades instead of blinds and pleated curtains ◙ Use wall paper/ mould resistant paint. Keep damp corners of the house clean to avoid moulds ◙ Be sure about your tolerability to perfumes, deodorants, sprays and lotions. OUTSIDE THE HOUSE ◙ Light exercise is advisable for better mobility of bronchial and sinus secretions. ◙ Cover nose and mouth while traveling through dusty areas ◙ Avoid going to high pollen areas 2.) MEDICATION ◙ Antihistamines- which work by blocking the effect of histamine thus reliving running nose and sneezing ◙ Blocked nose is usually treated with decongestants (oral or nasal drops) which help to shrink the blood vessels in the nose ◙ Combinations of antihistamines and decongestants may be used ◙ Sodium cromoglycate – spray 4-6 times a day ◙ STEROIDS: Systemic- rarely required Intranasal Intranasl steroids (sprays) in the most effective and safe treatment in Controlling allergic rhinitis. Steroids may be used in combination with Antihistamines. 3.) HYPOSENSITISATION Should be considered only in patients who fail to respond to anti allergic Medications and in whom prevocational evidence is there. It involves giving serial subcutaneous injections of allergen extract in progressively increasing doses so as to lessen the sensitivity of the individual to that particular allergen. For adequate results the patient may have to continue the treatment for upto 3 years.