Allergic rhinitis is a chronic condition, which means that it is long-lasting and may not go away completely. However, with the right treatment and management strategies, it is possible to reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions and effectively control symptoms.
There are several treatment options available for allergic rhinitis, including:
- Avoiding allergens: Identifying and avoiding the substances that trigger your allergies can help to prevent allergic reactions and reduce symptoms.
- Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids, can help to alleviate symptoms and prevent allergic reactions.
- Allergy shots: Also known as immunotherapy, this treatment involves receiving small amounts of the allergen through injections over a period of time, with the goal of building up a tolerance to the substance and reducing allergic reactions.
- Hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and using a saline nasal rinse, can help to reduce the spread of allergens and prevent infections.
These lifestyle changes can help reduce the occurrence of Allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
- Avoid touching your face and rubbing your eyes or nose.
- Close windows in your home and car during the spring, summer and early fall when pollen counts are higher.
- Enclose pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust mite covers.
- Keep pets off couches and beds, and close doors to bedrooms you don’t want them to enter.
- Use filters in your vacuum cleaner and air conditioner to reduce the amount of allergens in the air.
- Wash your hands often, especially after playing with pets.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen when you’re outside. Change your clothes as soon as you come indoors.
Also consider keeping away from or reducing exposure to these external factors that can trigger or worsen your condition
- cigarette smoke
- chemicals
- cold temperatures
- humidity
- wind
- air pollution
- hairspray
- perfumes
- colognes
- wood smoke
- fumes
It is important to note that Allergic rhinitis occurs when your body’s immune system reacts to an irritant in the air. The best way to ensure this allergy goes away is to avoid contact with such triggers.