The nose is an organ which is primarily used to breathe i.e. inhale and exhale. It forms an important cog in the respiratory system of the body and is also used to identify various smells as well. The nose allows the introduction of air into the body. During this process, specific cells communicate with the brain, enabling it to recognize an odor.
The hairs found on the inside of the nostrils have biological significance since they ensure that foreign particles are not transmitted into the body and only safe passage of clean air is executed. The air travels through the nasal zone before it reaches the lungs.
A nasal allergy is an inflammatory reaction to any number of irritants or allergens. Nasal allergies, which are also referred to as allergic rhinitis and hay fever, transpire when the immune system is affected by allergens in the atmosphere.
Routine
Allergies affecting the nose are quite prevalent, so much so that one in five adults in the United States suffer from a nasal predicament. Nasal concerns are not taken seriously since there is no chance of fatalities occurring because of such allergies. However, despite the general disregard, it causes considerable sickness in patients. The rapid sneezing, chest congestion, eye irritations, and a nose that is constantly blocked are all side effects of these allergies.
If left untreated, a niggling nasal nuisance can become much more, such as a sinus problem. Before such an unfortunate circumstance arises, patients must vigilant and nip their nasal concerns in the bud. If adequate treatment is availed in a timely manner, allergic rhinitis is definitely treatable.
Although patients have to endure an abject state, they fail to take the illness seriously. They treat the precursors mentioned above with disdain and negligence, which is not a sensible choice. They may be accustomed to concerns like regular congestion, sinus dilemmas, and mouth breathing.
Symptoms
Of course, we cannot discuss nasal allergies without expounding symptoms of the infection. Signals that require your attention include a runny nose which is perhaps the most common sign of allergic rhinitis. Naturally, the ideal way to avoid this instance is by avoiding allergy triggers. This forms a significant step to avert an overflowing nose.
Plenty of patients may exhibit an allergic reaction to pollen for instance. Although some triggers may be impossible to avoid outright, it is advised to decrease exposure. If pollen is an issue, then patients may opt to stay indoors when pollen is higher. Similarly, cat or dog hair may provoke an unfavorable reaction, which means those affected must refrain from making contact and wash their hands if a domestic animal makes contact.
The sinuses are small cavities that are found behind the forehead and eyes. These cavities may be laden with mucus in case an allergy (or other illness) develops. As a result, patients may sense pressure in their sinus area (aka sinus congestion). In order to reduce this condition, steam can be inhaled or a nasal spray can be used as well. In addition, there are numerous over the counter medications that can relieve sinus pressure, but it is recommended to speak to your doctor first to make sure you can take these meds, especially if you are taken other prescribed medication.
A bout of sneezing is another indication that an allergy is germinating. People can suffer from elevated episodes of sneezing, which can be cured with an antihistamine. The final symptom of a nose allergy is watery eyes and you may feel discomfort in your eyes. It is better not to rub the eyes profusely and wear glasses instead of contact lenses.
Treatment
Conventionally, mild allergic rhinitis is treated with over the counter medicine. Prescription drugs are not required as standard medication but can be used to tend to nasal allergies. A mild condition may affect an individual once or twice a year. It is best to speak to your doctor if you feel you have these symptoms.
Examples of over the counter medication include steroid nasal sprays. As shown in the picture above, these sprays can be inserted into the nostrils for relief. They reduce the inflammation or swelling in the nasal passages. They are recommended by doctors worldwide as the most viable option since they are instantly effective and convenient as well.
Furthermore, alternatives are antihistamines, drugs which directly impact the histamine in the respiratory system. Histamine is a chemical which is known to cause several allergic symptoms. The drug allows patients relief from itches and sneezes. Examples of antihistamines include fexofenadine and cetirizine. Although they can sporadically cause a sense of drowsiness, they are suggested strongly by doctors.
Decongestants are also useful if a patient is suffering from congestion in their chest area. While antihistamines can only curb allergy symptoms, it does not assuage the concern. This is precisely why patients require decongestants. Drugs such as Phenylephrine can decrease the inflammation and open the nasal passage. Last but not least, there are other options available to patients. For instance, Cromolyn is a nasal spray which can soothe the irritation of discomfort in the chest and the nose.
In case consuming over the counter medication is in vain, patients can seek alternative means. For instance, a steroid heavy nasal spray may do the trick. These are the most common treatment pertaining to allergic rhinitis. It is an all-purpose medication that allows users to hit multiple birds with one stone. Examples are Budesonide and Triamcinolone. Nasal sprays affect the concerned area and provide instant relief.
In cases where the severity is higher than usual and conventional medication does not have the required impact, then patients can undergo immunotherapy. This is a procedure where the body is exposed to small quantities of the allergen so that it becomes accustomed. With the passage of time, significant amounts may be able to offset an allergic reaction. Such allergy shots work in 9 out of 10 cases. An injection or oral tablets can be administered and the immune system in the body performs its function.
As mentioned, it is highly recommended to speak to your physician to determine (1) if the symptoms you are experiencing are due to an allergy or some other condition and (2) get the appropriate medication you will need to combat it.