How to Cope with Nasal Allergies

Two out of 10 Filipino adults are affected by nasal allergies, according to the National Nutrition and Health Survey conducted in 2008. Also known as allergic rhinitis, nasal allergies are a group of symptoms affecting the nose. These symptoms occur when you breathe in something that you are allergic to (known as allergens).

Symptoms

You’ll usually feel one or more allergic rhinitis symptoms immediately after coming into contact with an allergen. Some symptoms, such as recurrent headaches and fatigue, may only develop after long-term exposure to allergens.  Common symptoms include:

• sneezing
• a runny nose
• a stuffy nose
• an itchy nose
• coughing
• a sore or scratchy throat
• itchy eyes
• watery eyes
• dark circles under the eyes
• frequent headaches
• eczema-type symptoms, such as having extremely dry, itchy skin that often blisters
• hives
• excessive fatigue

Causes

When your body comes into contact with an allergen, it releases histamine, which is a natural chemical that defends your body from the allergen. This chemical causes allergic rhinitis and its symptoms. Pollen is the most common allergen.

In addition to pollen, other common allergens include:

• grass
• dust
• animal dander, which is old skin
• cat saliva
• mold

In the Philippines, more people develop allergic rhinitis during the dry season when trees, flowers, grass and weeds produce more pollen.

Risk factors

Allergies can affect anyone, but you’re more likely to develop allergic rhinitis if your family has a history of allergies.

Some external factors can trigger or worsen allergic rhinitis, including:

• cigarette smoke
• chemicals
• cold temperatures
• humidity
• wind
• air pollution
• hairspray
• perfumes
• colognes
• wood smoke
• fumes

Treatment options

Common treatments include:

Antihistamines work by stopping your body from making histamine. Talk to your doctor before starting a new medication. Make sure that a new allergy medication won’t interfere with other medications or medical conditions.

Decongestants can be taken over a short period to relieve a stuffy nose and sinus pressure. If you have high blood pressure or a genitourinary disease, speak with your doctor before using a decongestant.

Eye drops and nasal sprays can help relieve itchiness and other allergy-related symptoms for a short time. However, you should avoid long-term use of these products.

Home remedies

• If you have seasonal or pollen allergies, you can try using an air conditioner instead of opening your windows. If possible, add a filter designed for allergies.
• Using a dehumidifier or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can help you control your allergies while indoors.
• If you’re allergic to dust mites, wash your sheets and blankets in hot water that’s above 54.4°C.
• Adding a HEPA filter to your vacuum and vacuuming weekly may also help.
• Keep your bedroom pet-free. Doing so can significantly reduce levels of allergens in your bedroom.
• Dusting as often as possible will keep dander (as well as dust mites and other allergens) to a minimum. Open windows to increase the ventilation in your home.
• Brush your cat or dog in your yard to prevent loose, allergen-carrying hair from dispersing through your home.

-Medical Observer