ALLERGY-RELATED INFLAMMATION OF THE NOSE
Allergic Rhinitis
An allergic inflammation of the nasal lining causing sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose, itchy eyes and post-nasal drip. Triggered by dust, pollen, pet dander and other allergens.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal lining caused by an allergic reaction to specific triggers such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mould spores and certain occupational exposures. It can be seasonal (worse during specific pollen seasons) or perennial (year-round). Typical features include repeated sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itching of the nose, eyes, throat and ears, post-nasal drip and reduced sense of smell. The condition is often associated with allergic conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes), asthma, sinusitis and eczema. While not life-threatening, it can significantly affect sleep, concentration, school and work performance and overall quality of life. Effective treatment includes identifying and avoiding triggers, anti-inflammatory nasal therapy, antihistamine therapy and, in some patients, allergen immunotherapy. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive allergic rhinitis care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Dust mites in bedding, carpets and soft furnishings
- Pollen from trees, grasses and weeds
- Pet dander from cats, dogs and other animals
- Mould spores in damp environments
- Cockroach allergens
- Occupational exposures and chemical irritants
- Family history of allergies, asthma or eczema
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical evaluation; allergy testing in selected cases
Seasonal · Perennial (year-round)
Trigger avoidance, anti-inflammatory nasal therapy, antihistamine therapy and immunotherapy in selected patients
Often linked with asthma, sinusitis and allergic conjunctivitis
Affects sleep, concentration and quality of life
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Trigger Avoidance with Targeted Therapy
The most effective approach combines identification and avoidance of personal allergic triggers with anti-inflammatory nasal therapy, antihistamine therapy and, in selected patients, allergen immunotherapy for long-term symptom control.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, triggers and family history, examines the nose, eyes and chest and arranges allergy testing where indicated.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created with trigger-avoidance advice, appropriate medical therapy and consideration of immunotherapy.
- 3
Medical Management
Anti-inflammatory nasal therapy, antihistamine therapy, saline nasal washes and management of associated conditions like asthma and sinusitis.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review of symptom control, adjustment of therapy and consideration of allergen immunotherapy for persistent or severe cases.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Trigger Avoidance
Identifying and avoiding personal allergens — through dust-mite covers, regular cleaning, pet-free zones or seasonal precautions — is the foundation of long-term control.
Anti-Inflammatory Nasal Therapy
Anti-inflammatory nasal sprays significantly reduce nasal inflammation, sneezing, congestion and discharge when used regularly.
Antihistamine Therapy
Oral and nasal antihistamine therapy reduces sneezing, itching and runny nose, especially during peak allergy seasons.
Saline Nasal Washes
Regular saline rinses help clear allergens, mucus and irritants from the nasal passages.
Allergen Immunotherapy in Selected Patients (Referral for allergy specialist)
Long-term allergen immunotherapy can provide significant and lasting improvement in carefully selected patients with persistent allergic rhinitis.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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