31 March 2020 Allergic rhinitis is caused by exposure of the nasal mucosa to allergens to which the patient has been sensitized. What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis? The main symptoms of allergic rhinitis are: Sneezing; Persistent nasal itching; Nose discharge alternating with stuffy nose; Difficulty in perceiving odors. These common symptoms may be accompanied by itching in the throat, ears and eyes . In the most severe cases, allergic rhinitis can be associated with frequent nosebleeds or coughing . In children and adolescents , rhinitis significantly affects quality of life , with: Sleeping problems; Frequent awakenings during the night due to persistent stuffy nose; Dryness of the oropharynx. All of this interferes with the capacity for learning and with fatigue in everyday life activities. What are the main causes of rhinitis? The main causes of rhinitis are: Exposure to household dust; Exposure to pollens; Exposure to animal hair; Rhinitis in the context of allergy to drugs or food. How should rhinitis be treated? Identify the causative agents; Hygiene and environmental control measures; Treatment with drugs such as antihistamines and / or nasal corticosteroids and / or antileukotrienes; Antiallergic vaccines. The authors of this text are the following allergologists from the Hospital da Luz network: 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.
