Rhinitis
Rhinitis is defined as inflammation of the nose. It’s a reaction occurs that causes nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Most types of rhinitis are caused by an inflammation and are associated with symptoms in the eyes, ears, or throat.
Here are three categories of rhinitis, such as allergic, non-allergic and mixed. Allergic rhinitis, is caused by allergens and can be seasonal or perennial. Non-allergic rhinitis is not caused by allergens, but caused by smoke, medications, chemicals or other irritating conditions. All three types of rhinitis have the same symptoms and treatments, they just have different causes.
Treatment for rhinitis includes avoiding the allergen, medication and irrigating the nasal passages.
This widespread allergic condition affects an estimated 10% to 30% of the global population, as per the World Allergy Organization (WOA).
Allergic rhinitis isn’t the same as infectious rhinitis, otherwise known as the common cold. Also, not all rhinitis is allergic.
Allergic rhinitis generally occurs in atopic individuals, often in association with atopic dermatitis, food allergy, urticaria, and/or asthma . Up to 50% of patients with allergic rhinitis manifest asthma, whereas 70–80% of individuals with asthma and 80% of individuals with chronic bilateral sinusitis experience allergic rhinitis. Female sex, particularly air pollution exposure and maternal tobacco smoking increase the risk of developing allergic rhinitis over the life span.
ALLERGIC RHINITIS :
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a condition characterized by an over reaction of the immune system to specific allergens in the environment. When individuals with allergic rhinitis come into contact with triggers such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores, house dust mites, animal danders, or insect (cockroach) products their immune system reacts strongly, leading to various uncomfortable symptoms. Trees, grasses, and weeds that depend on wind rather than insects for pollination produce sufficient quantities of pollen suitable for wide distribution by air currents to elicit seasonal allergic rhinitis.
These commonly include sneezing, nasal congestion, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation, significantly impacting their daily life. Studies from respected institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) show a rising prevalence of allergic rhinitis, especially in urban areas and its link to a higher risk of developing other allergic conditions like asthma.
SOME FACTS ABOUT ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN UAE
Research, including a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), indicates that allergic rhinitis affects approximately 7% of the population in the UAE, with localized studies hinting at slightly elevated figures. Notably, specific demographics, notably children and adults aged between 20 and 44, exhibit a higher incidence of this condition.
Ref: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4118622/
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) can make you feel awful, but you can find relief with lifestyle changes, allergy medications and immunotherapy (allergy shots).
When you breathe in allergens through your nose or mouth, your body reacts by releasing a natural chemical called histamine. Despite being called hay fever, hay doesn’t cause hay fever and most people don’t get a fever.
Symptoms
Nasal stuffiness (congestion), bouts of sneezing and runny nose.
Itchy nose, throat and eyes.
Red or watery eyes.
Coughing or Throat Clearing: Persistent cough or throat clearing
Headaches, sinus pressure and dark circles under your eyes.
More mucus in your nose and throat.
Tiredness.
Sore throat from mucus dripping down your throat (postnasal drip).
Ear Congestion : Pressure changes in the ears due to nasal congestion.
Fatigue
Wheezing, coughing and trouble breathing
Prevention
The best method to prevention is avoidance. If you are unsure of what your trigger is, ask your allergist about administering an allergy test.
Use air purifiers indoors.
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
Regularly clean carpets, bedding, and curtains.
Avoid exposure to known allergens.
Taking showers after outdoor activities to remove pollen from the body and hair
Complications
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the tissue in the sinuses.
Eustachian tube dysfunction may also occur.
Ear infections, Swelling of the turbinates and mucous membranes with obstruction of the sinus ostia and eustachian tubes precipitates secondary infections of the sinuses and middle ear, respectively.
Loss of smell (anosmia)
Sleep apnea
Asthma
Worsening Asthma Symptoms: Allergic rhinitis and asthma often coexist. Rhinitis can exacerbate asthma symptoms, making it harder to control asthma attacks. Nasal congestion can also trigger or worsen asthma symptoms.
Impaired Quality of Life: Constant sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and other symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis can impact daily activities, work productivity, and overall well-being, leading to a reduced quality of life.
Poor Performance in School or Work: Children and adults suffering from allergic rhinitis may experience difficulty concentrating, leading to decreased performance in school or at work.
Worsening of other conditions: Allergic rhinitis can worsen certain conditions such as eczema, leading to skin irritation and itching due to allergic reactions.
Nasal polyp
When to see a doctor?
You can’t find relief from your hay fever symptoms
Allergy medications don’t provide relief or cause annoying side effects
You have another condition that can worsen hay fever symptoms, such as nasal polyps, asthma or frequent sinus infections
Many people — especially children — get used to hay fever symptoms, so they might not seek treatment until the symptoms become severe. But getting the right treatment might offer relief.
ALLERGIC RHINITIS SOLUTIONS
It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you exhibit these symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Conventional Management often involves allergen avoidance strategies, medications like antihistamines, decongestants or nasal corticosteroids, and in some cases, immunotherapy to desensitize the child’s immune system to specific allergens.
HOMEOPATHY TREATMENT FOR ALLERGIC RHINITIS
Homeopathy seeks to activate the body’s inherent healing mechanisms to alleviate symptoms and promote overall well-being.
It offers personalized treatment for allergic rhinitis, considering an individual’s unique symptoms, lifestyle and overall health. This process aims to stimulate the body’s innate capacity for self-healing. Obviously, homeopathy stands out for its safety and natural approach, free of any associated side effects.
HOW EFFECTIVE ARE HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES FOR ALLERGIC RHINITIS?
Research and patient testimonials indicate that homeopathic medicines show promise in effectively alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Wildly acclaimed for their non-sedative properties and non-addictive nature, being natural and plant-based, they are considered suitable for use by all, including toddlers, elderly and even pregnant women.
Customized Medications: The treatment approach is individualized. Based on the detailed analysis and understanding of the root cause, personalized medications are prescribed.
Holistic and Personalized Care: Personal care, patient’s overall well-being are given more importance.
Analysis of the disease condition, a focus on identifying the root cause, personalized medicines and holistic care provided by homeopathic doctor.
The duration for homeopathy to alleviate allergic rhinitis symptoms varies for each individual. It depends on factors like the severity of symptoms, the person’s immune system, and their responsiveness to homeopathic remedies.
In conclusion, managing allergic rhinitis requires comprehensive treatment. Homeopathy treats allergic rhinitis at its core, offering a mild, sweet, natural, safe approach with no side effects.
