Learn about nasal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis

In Louisiana the days are getting longer, the air is warming up, the flowers are blooming, and this can only mean one thing—spring is in the air. For many, spring is a delightful season. But for those with nasal allergies, it’s the season of itchy eyes and a runny nose.

Nasal allergies, also called allergic rhinitis (meaning “inflammation of the nose”), are a common health problem. They can be seasonal and only cause symptoms at certain times of the year. Or they can be perennial, causing symptoms all year long.

Learn more about nasal allergies, why they happen, and how you can treat them.

What causes nasal allergies?

Nasal allergies are a reaction to a substance called an allergen. Your body may react to some allergens—such as pollen, mold, dust mites, or animal fur—by releasing the chemical histamine, which leads to allergy symptoms.

With nasal allergies, as allergens irritate your nose, your immune system releases histamine. The nose then produces mucus that’s thick and pale yellow, instead of thin and clear. This mucus may begin to flow from the front of the nose or collect in the back of your nasal passages, sometimes causing drainage down your throat (postnasal drip).

Common symptoms of nasal allergies

Nasal allergy symptoms can include:

• Congestion in the nose and ears
• Coughing
• Headaches
• Itchy nose, eyes, ears, and throat
• Postnasal drip
• Red, watery eyes
• Runny nose with clear, watery discharge
• Sinus pain and swelling
• Sneezing

Note that other health problems can cause similar symptoms. Examples include nonallergic rhinitis, viruses like the common cold, changes in weather, medicines, and irritants or pollutants, such as smoke.

Allergies vs. cold

Sometimes, it can be hard to tell the difference between nasal allergies and the common cold. It’s no surprise why—there are over 100 cold viruses that spread at certain times of the year, including allergy season. Here are a few differences to remember:

• Allergens cause allergies, and viruses cause colds.
• Allergies happen at the same time each year, but you can get a cold at any time.
• Allergies last as long as the allergen is in the air (a few weeks), while a cold lasts about one week.
• A cold is less likely to cause an itchy nose and eyes, unlike allergies.

Allergy nasal spray and other treatments

The best way to treat nasal allergies is to avoid allergens that trigger them. Your healthcare provider, or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can help you find out what’s causing symptoms and recommend treatment. If you have nasal allergies, they may prescribe nasal steroid sprays or oral antihistamines to reduce symptoms.

You can prevent allergies by washing your hands and bed linens often, keeping windows closed during high mold and pollen seasons, and not touching or rubbing your eyes and nose.

When to call an ENT

Don’t let your nasal allergies make you miserable. The ENT doctors at LCMC Health are ready to help. Both children and adults can receive a variety of ENT treatments—for conditions ranging from allergies to sinus problems. Schedule an ENT appointment today.