Nasal and Eye Allergy

Nasal Allergy (Rhinitis)

rhinitis-sneeze-cartoon-pictureSymptoms

Rhinitis is a term describing the symptoms produced by nasal irritation or inflammation. Symptoms of rhinitis include:

  • Runny nose
  • Itching
  • Sneezing
  • Stuffy nose due to blockage or congestion

These symptoms are the nose’s natural response to inflammation and irritation. They are often associated with itching of the eyes.

Rhinitis Causes

There are two types of rhinitis: allergic and non-allergic.

Allergic Rhinitis

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is most often caused by pollens carried in the air during different times of the year.

Allergic rhinitis can also be triggered by common indoor allergens such as the dried skin flakes, urine and saliva found on pet dander, mold, droppings from dust mites and cockroach particles. This is called perennial allergic rhinitis, as symptoms typically occur year-round.

Many people with allergic rhinitis are prone to allergic conjunctivitis (eye allergy). In addition, allergic rhinitis can make symptoms of asthma worse for people who suffer from both conditions.

Nonallergic Rhinitis

At least one out of three people with rhinitis symptoms do not have allergies. Nonallergic rhinitis usually afflicts adults and causes year-round symptoms, especially runny nose and nasal congestion. This condition differs from allergic rhinitis because the immune system is not involved.

Rhinitis treatment

Your allergist may perform allergy tests to figure out what type of rhinitis you may have. Management for allergic rhinitis include allergen avoidance, medication and immunotherapy (allergy shots).

For nonallergic rhinitis, nasal sprays are the treatment option.

Eye Allergy 

eye-allergy-pictureEye allergy is also called allergic conjunctivitis. The common symptoms include:

  • Eye itchiness
  • Redness
  • Watery eyes
  • Mild crusting upon awakening
  • Dry gritty sensation
  • Eyelid swelling

These symptoms are often accompanied by nasal symptoms. Management is similar to allergic rhinitis. However, if you experience pain, vision impairment, strong sensitivity to light, you should an eye doctor immediately.