As a medical disorder, allergic rhinitis causes nasal passage irritation in response to allergens in the air. Common allergens that can provoke allergic rhinitis include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores.

The immune system of a person with allergic rhinitis responds to these allergens by generating substances like histamine, which causes symptoms including:• Sneezing• Congested or runny nose• Dry or itchy eyes• Throat or ear itching• Coughing• FatigueThese symptoms are often seasonal when induced by outdoor allergens like pollen, or perennial (year-round) when caused by interior allergens such dust mites or pet dander. Allergic rhinitis can dramatically damage a person's quality of life, leading to discomfort, sleep problems, and reduced everyday functioning.

The most common forms of allergic rhinitis are:1. For example, hay fever in the spring or allergies to grass and tree pollen in the fall are examples of seasonal allergic rhinitis.

2. Allergens found inside the home, such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroach allergens, are common causes of the year-round condition known as perennial allergic rhinitis.

Avoiding allergens is the first line of defense against allergic rhinitis, but there are other ways to treat the condition, such as using antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and allergy needles. It's best to see a doctor if you think you have allergic rhinitis so that you may get a proper diagnosis and advice on the best course of therapy.

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