Allergic rhinitis is actually the most common form of allergic reaction - allergy. It represents an inflammatory reaction caused mostly by inhalant, but also by nutritional allergens, and it can give different symptoms. They vary, but the dominant manifestations are: itching and redness of the nose and eyes, frequent sneezing, nasal congestion or watery discharge, dry irritating cough, scratchy throat. In children, it can appear in an occasional or permanent form, that is, it can be seasonal or year-round. Regarding the severity of the symptoms, it can be mild or severe.

Who should you turn to for dealing with a child's allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common conditions for which people visit a specialist otorhinolaryngologist. Children with upper respiratory infections and allergic rhinitis are examined by an otorhinolaryngologist, who makes a diagnosis and then performs controls. Allergic rhinitis is a condition that, if inadequately controlled, can affect the entire life and development of the child. Children may snore at night, not having a good night's sleep, which then results in difficulty waking up in the morning, sleepiness during the day, reduced concentration in school and not having enough energy for physical activities.

It has long been thought that children under the age of two cannot develop allergies because their immune systems are not sufficiently developed. But today it has already been proven that even newborn children can have an allergic reaction to common allergens such as dust, mites, hair from pets, dogs and cats, or food allergies. When the body recognizes one of the allergens as a foreign body, it starts an immune reaction against it.

How is allergic rhinitis diagnosed?

The diagnosis is made with an endoscopic examination of the nose during which the mucosa inside is visualized. In allergic rhinitis, it is pale, swollen, covered with a transparent, shiny, watery secretion. Often it can also be dry. The nasal shells are enlarged, swollen and usually completely close the nasal cavity and breathing is compromised, disturbed. A swab is also taken, and large amounts of eosinophils are often present in the sample taken. Allergo tests from a nutritional and inhalation panel are also performed, which are vital for the type of allergen that causes the allergy. Among other tests, a nasal test with direct allergen instillation, an elimination test of nutritional allergens or a protein balance test – increased values ​​of gamma globulins – allergy, beta globulins – inflammation can be done.

How is allergic rhinitis treated and controlled?

In order to alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, it should be diagnosed correctly and promptly, and then an appropriate approach in terms of treatment and management should be determined. According to ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Association), the following steps can be taken:

– Avoiding or reducing contact with the incriminating allergen.
– Hygiene of the nasal mucosa – with physiological solution, every morning and evening.
- Receiving drug therapy, which can be systemic and/or topical. Systemic includes antihistamines of the second generation, inhibitors of leukotriene receptors. Whereas, topical includes decongestants in the form of saline solutions, topical corticosteroids, topical antihistamines, combined sprays, topical chromones, topical cholinergics.
– Specific immunotherapy SIT.
– Patient training on self-control of allergic rhinitis.
– Surgical treatment.

The best advice is for each patient to be individually involved in controlling their own allergy and allergic rhinitis, ie to be aware and understand their condition and try to correct it themselves with the advice given by their doctors. In case they are in need, ask them for advice.

At the "Zhan Mitrev" Clinic, Dr. Dancho Shurkov, an otorhinolaryngologist specialist, will help you deal with allergic rhinitis and all other conditions related to the ear, nose and throat. To schedule an appointment, call our contact center at 02/3091-484.