About this condition
Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal lining related to exposure to allergens. It may cause recurrent sneezing, nasal itching, clear runny discharge and congestion, either seasonally or throughout the year.
What you should know
Common triggers can include pollen and indoor allergens, but the likely cause must fit the actual pattern of symptoms. Allergic rhinitis can affect sleep, concentration and quality of life; it is not simply any persistent runny nose.
When to seek medical advice
People often report repeated sneezing, watery nasal discharge, blocked nose, itching of the nose or eyes and symptoms that worsen in specific settings. The timing, duration and associated cough or breathing complaints are useful details for a consultation.
Important distinctions
Allergic rhinitis differs from viral infections, non-allergic irritation and structural nasal problems. A positive sensitisation test without matching symptoms does not by itself prove that an allergen is clinically responsible.
How assessment works
The clinician reviews exposure history, seasonality, examination findings and other conditions. Targeted allergy testing may be appropriate in selected situations; indiscriminate broad panels do not replace clinical assessment or establish the cause alone.
Management and limitations
Management can include reducing exposure to a confirmed trigger and clinician-selected treatment for nasal symptoms. Long-term use of decongestant nasal drops without advice may worsen congestion. Available treatments and specialist testing should be confirmed with the clinic.
When emergency help is needed
An ordinary allergic runny nose is not an emergency. Sudden tongue or throat swelling, wheezing, rapidly worsening breathlessness or collapse may indicate a severe allergic reaction; call 103 or 112 immediately.
Related information
Urticaria (hives); Angioedema; Food allergy; Allergic contact dermatitis.
Signs and symptoms
People often report repeated sneezing, watery nasal discharge, blocked nose, itching of the nose or eyes and symptoms that worsen in specific settings. The timing, duration and associated cough or breathing complaints are useful details for a consultation.
Diagnosis and tests
The clinician reviews exposure history, seasonality, examination findings and other conditions. Targeted allergy testing may be appropriate in selected situations; indiscriminate broad panels do not replace clinical assessment or establish the cause alone.
Care and treatment approaches
Management can include reducing exposure to a confirmed trigger and clinician-selected treatment for nasal symptoms. Long-term use of decongestant nasal drops without advice may worsen congestion. Available treatments and specialist testing should be confirmed with the clinic.
When to seek urgent care
An ordinary allergic runny nose is not an emergency. Sudden tongue or throat swelling, wheezing, rapidly worsening breathlessness or collapse may indicate a severe allergic reaction; call 103 or 112 immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Is allergic rhinitis always seasonal?
No. Pollen-related symptoms are often seasonal, but indoor triggers may cause symptoms at different times throughout the year.
Should I order a test for every possible allergen?
Not routinely. Tests are chosen from the history and probable triggers, because positive results alone can be misleading.
Is hay fever different from allergic rhinitis?
Hay fever commonly refers to pollen-related seasonal allergy. Allergic rhinitis is a broader term that also covers other triggers.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
