6 Ways to Treat Allergic Rhinitis

1. Avoid Allergens That Trigger Symptoms

Once you've identified an offending allergen, be it pollen, mites, dust follicles, cat or dog dander, asbestos, chemicals in the air, or mildew and mold, try to remove that allergen from your environment and observe symptoms. It may take a few days or up to a week for symptoms to subside, even after an offending allergen has been banned from the environment.

2. Try Immunotherapy

Sometimes a poorly regulated immune system allows certain otherwise harmless substances to cause rhinitis-like reactions. With the help of a specialized therapist, you can teach your immune system not to overreact to allergenic elements in your environment.

3. Take a Course of Antihistamines

The way in which many allergenic particle_temps cause rhinitis-like symptoms is by attaching to certain histamine receptors, which in turn set off the immune system's responses. Antihistamines are designed to cover up these receptors so that allergens can't attach to them and thus set off the chain reaction.

4. Try Corticosteroids

You can take corticosteroids either in the nose directly by using a pump to spray or powder to apply, or you can get an injection or take an oral pill. Corticosteroids can often have a markedly rapid effect on symptoms, but do have some side effects, such as Cushing's syndrome and possible eye damage.

5. Use Nasal Decongestants

The way nasal decongestants work is by decreasing the flow of blood to the membranes in the nose. This in effect reduces inflammation and alleviates the symptoms. Overuse of nasal decongrestants, however, can have a rebound effect and make your symptoms worse.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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