Treatment and Specialist Care for Allergic Rhinitis
What Is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis refers to the swelling of the inside lining of the nose that occurs when individuals inhale substances they’re allergic to. Also referred to as hay fever, it’s one of the most common illnesses affecting both adults and children. Family history plays a role in allergic rhinitis, especially when being diagnosed by a specialist. Genetic factors often predispose individuals to having hypersensitive reactions to common environmental allergens.
What Causes Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is caused by your immune system reacting strongly to airborne allergens, leading to inflammation of nasal passages. When an individual becomes exposed to these allergens — pollen, mold, animal dander, dust and others — the inflammatory pathway is activated, leading to the following symptoms:
- Frequent sneezing
- Runny, itchy nose or nasal obstructions
- Itchy, watery — and sometimes reddened — eyes
- Itching of the throat, mouth, or ears
What’s Recommended as Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis?
First and foremost, allergic rhinitis treatment includes minimizing exposure to whatever substance is causing the reaction. After that, an ENT specialist may recommend the following for your rhinitis:
- Oral antihistamines like Claritin®, Allegra®, ZYRTEC® and BENADRYL® can help counteract released histamine
- Over-the-counter steroid nasal sprays like FLONASE® or Nasacort® work topically to decrease inflammation
- Oral decongestants like SUDAFED® can help as well, but are not recommended for patients with high blood pressure
- For some, immunotherapy — also known as allergy shots — may be recommended for more severe cases of rhinitis.
- If you’re unsure of what you need to curb your symptoms, get in touch with our care team for a consultation.
Our specialists will work with you to create the right care plan for your allergic rhinitis to get you feeling and breathing better in no time.
Sinus Self-Assessment
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Find OutMeet the Team
Dr. Geoffrey Getnick
Board certified in Otolaryngology, Dr. Getnick received his bachelor’s degree from Princeton University. He was named “Best Doctor” in Minnesota Monthly.
Dr. Justin Wudel
A dual board-certified Otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Wudel has expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face.
Dr. Tyler Mingo
Dr. Mingo has expertise in the full breadth of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery with a special interest in Laryngology, the medical and surgical treatment of speech and swallow disorders.
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