Details Descriptions About :: Allergic Rhinitis

 Allergic rhinitis is a reaction to airborne (inhaled) allergens. Depending on the allergen, the resulting rhinitis and conjunctivitis may occur seasonally (hay fever) or year-round (perennial allergic rhinitis). Allergic rhinitis is the most common atopic allergic reaction, affecting over 20 million U.S. residents. Age Alert Allergic rhinitis is most prevalent in young children and adolescents, but occurs in all age groups.

Causes for Allergic Rhinitis

Causes Immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated type I hypersensitivity response to an environmental antigen (allergen) in a genetically susceptible person Common triggers Wind-borne pollens: Spring—oak, elm, maple, alder, birch, cottonwood Summer—grasses, sheep sorrel, English plantain Autumn—ragweed, other weeds Perennial allergens and irritants: Dust mite excreta, fungal spores, molds Feather pillows Cigarette smoke Animal dander

Pathophysiology Allergic Rhinitis

Pathophysiology During primary exposure to an allergen, T cells recognize the foreign allergens and release chemicals that instruct B cells to produce specific antibodies called IgE. IgE antibodies attach themselves to mast cells. Mast cells with attached IgE can remain in the body for years, ready to react when they next encounter the same allergen. The second time the allergen enters the body, it comes into direct contact with the IgE antibodies attached to the mast cells. This stimulates the mast cells to release chemicals, such as histamine, which initiate a response that causes tightening of the smooth muscles in the airways, dilation of small blood vessels, increased mucus secretion in the nasal cavity and airways, and itching.

Signs and symptoms Allergic Rhinitis

Signs and symptoms Seasonal allergic rhinitis Paroxysmal sneezing Profuse watery rhinorrhea; nasal obstruction or congestion Pruritus of nose and eyes Pale, cyanotic, edematous nasal mucosa Red, edematous eyelids and conjunctivae Excessive lacrimation Headache or sinus pain Itching of the throat Malaise Perennial allergic rhinitis Chronic nasal obstruction, commonly extending to eustachian tube Conjunctivitis and other extranasal effects rare Clinical Tip In both types of allergic rhinitis, dark circles may appear under the patient’s eyes (“allergic shiners”) because of venous congestion in the maxillary sinuses.

Diagnostic Lab Test results

Diagnostic test results A definitive diagnosis is based on the patient’s personal and family history of allergies as well as physical findings during a symptomatic phase. Microscopic examination of sputum and nasal secretions reveals large numbers of eosinophils. Blood chemistry shows normal or elevated IgE. Skin testing paired with tested responses to environmental stimuli pinpoints the responsible allergens given the patient’s history.

Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis

Treatment Antihistamines such as fexofenadine Inhaled intranasal steroids, such as beclomethasone, flunisolide, and fluticasone Immunotherapy or desensitization with injections of extracted allergens Nasal decongestants

Disclaimer ::

The Information available on this site is for only Informational Purpose , before any use of this information please consult your Doctor .Price of the drugs indicated above may not match to real price due to many possible reasons may , including local taxes etc.. These are only approximate indicative prices of the drug.