31 March 2020 Rhinitis is an acute or chronic , infectious , allergic or irritating inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Allergic rhinitis is caused by exposure of the nasal mucosa to allergenic agents to which a patient has become sensitive. It is a very common disease both in adults and children. Allergic rhinitis caused by sensitization to pollens can be called pollinosis. Pollens are one of the most important allergens in the outdoor environment that induces symptoms of allergic disease. What are the symptoms of pollinosis? Sneezing; Persistent nasal itching; Nose discharge alternating with stuffy nose; Difficulty in perceiving odors. Itching in the throat, ears and eyes may also occur (allergic conjunctivitis). When are pollinosis symptoms more frequent? Pollens from herbs, trees and shrubs are usually the most implicated as inducing allergic symptoms. The concentration of pollens in the atmosphere depends on the specific pollination cycle for each species and on the geographical and atmospheric conditions in each year. However, pollen counts in Portugal show higher concentrations in the months from February to October , with peaks from April to July . What are the most relevant pollens from an allergic point of view? Pollens of herbs and shrubs : grasses, parietaria, sagebrush, plantago, kenopod, among others; Pollens from trees: olive, maple, birch, cypress, pine, phage, acacia, among others. What are the main pollen avoidance measures? Some strategies can help to prevent the appearance of symptoms associated with pollinosis during the pollen season, namely: Avoid outdoor areas with a high concentration of pollen; Minimize physical exercise outdoor during the pollen season; Use particle filters in the car and travel with the windows closed; Wear sunglasses outdoor for eye protection; Motorcyclists should wear a full helmet. Os autores deste texto são os seguinte médicos imunoalergologistas da rede Hospital da Luz: Luís Miguel Borrego, Ana Morais Mendes, Ana Reis Ferreira, Andreia Ferrão, Carlos Braga, Cristina Lopes, Diana Pereira da Silva, Filipa Semedo, Isabel Costa Silva, João Gaspar Marques, Pedro Carreiro Martins, Marta Salgado, Nuno Sousa, Rosa Anita Fernandes, Susana Piedade The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
