Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, affects one in five Americans, according to MayoClinic.com. Allergic rhinitis is an allergic condition that causes cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, nasal congestion and postnasal drip. Over-the-counter medications are used to treat allergic rhinitis, but in severe cases, a doctor will recommend prescription drugs. Talk with a medical professional before beginning any treatment.
Definition
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that allergic rhinitis is an overreaction of the immune system when someone breathes in an allergen. The hypersensitivity of the immune system to an allergen leads to the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. The condition is either seasonal, during the springtime, or year-round because of exposure to indoor allergens, such as cockroaches, dust mites or mold.
Symptoms
Allergic rhinitis causes symptoms mainly in the nose and eyes, according to MedlinePlus. Nasal and eye irritation are the main causes of the symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis. Eyes become itchy, red, watery and can swell if the allergic reaction is extreme. The sinus cavity swells, causing nasal congestion, postnasal drip, sneezing and sinus pressure.
Prescribed Drugs
Prescribed drugs used to treat allergic rhinitis are nasal ipratropium, corticosteroid nasal sprays and a leukotriene modifier, according to MayoClinic.com. Nasal ipratropium is prescribed for individuals who experience a constant runny nose because of hay fever. It works by preventing the mucus glands from producing excess mucus. Corticosteroid nasal sprays are prescribed to reduce inflammation in the sinus cavity; they are administered on a daily basis as a preventive measure, according to MedlinePlus. A leukotriene modifier is used to prevent excess mucus and is effective for hay fever and allergy induced asthma.
Warnings
Talk with an allergist or medical doctor before using any prescription drug. Side effects such as dry mouth, gastrointestinal issues and headaches may occur and should be disclosed to a medical doctor. Stop using any medication if it causes an allergic reaction, such as shortness of breathe, hives or chest pain. Some prescriptions are not intended for use with over-the-counter drugs. Talk with the doctor before combining medications.
Consideration
Prescribed medication is necessary in severe cases of allergic rhinitis, but the best treatment is identifying and avoiding allergens, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. People with seasonal hay fever should remain indoors with the doors and windows shut. Individuals who suffer from year-round hay fever need to maintain a clean home, free of dust and mold.
