Seasonal Nasal Allergies: Symptoms and Management Tips

Q: Seasonal Nasal Allergies: Symptoms and Management Tips

Hello, regarding nasal allergies, here is a brief overview： The main triggering factors are genetic predisposition and environmental allergens. <br>If one parent has allergic rhinitis, the likelihood of their children developing allergic rhinitis increases fourfold. <br>Common al

Nasal allergy issues?

Hello, doctor.
Since I was young, doctors at the clinic have told me that I have nasal allergies.
However, I have noticed that my condition has worsened over the past two years, so I went to the hospital for a consultation.
The doctor arranged for me to have an X-ray of my nose, but said there were no issues and only prescribed medication.
I still feel very uncomfortable, so I am inquiring here.
My symptoms are: during the summer, my nose becomes particularly uncomfortable, feeling very congested, dry, and there is a burning sensation that is somewhat painful.
I also feel like I can't get enough air, which makes me feel short of breath, and my ears feel like they are blocked with air.
My throat often feels like there is phlegm, but I can't seem to cough it out.
Sometimes my eyes also feel itchy.
At night, I have nasal congestion that feels like mucus is blocking my nose (but it doesn't actually run out).
I read online that people with nasal allergies tend to feel worse in winter and are uncomfortable when the air conditioning is on at night, but for me, my nose only feels moist and comfortable in winter.
Why is that? Additionally, when I smell fragrances (like air fresheners, cleaning products, or lotions), I find them irritating, and my nose becomes drier, and I feel dry in my mouth and throat.
Is this related to allergies as well? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/30

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, regarding nasal allergies, here is a brief overview: The main triggering factors are genetic predisposition and environmental allergens.
If one parent has allergic rhinitis, the likelihood of their children developing allergic rhinitis increases fourfold.
Common allergens include dust mites, followed by animals, insects, mold, and pollen.

Treatment typically begins with oral medications and nasal sprays, and surgery may be considered if necessary.
The primary medications include oral antihistamines and topical low-dose corticosteroid nasal sprays, often used in combination.
Depending on the situation, local antihistamines/vasoconstrictors or oral leukotriene receptor antagonists may also be utilized.

First-generation antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth, but newer generation antihistamines have significantly reduced these side effects.
If symptoms do not improve with medication and there is a clear structural obstruction, such as a deviated septum, enlarged inferior turbinates, or nasal valve narrowing, appropriate surgical intervention may be beneficial.
Recently, minimally invasive surgical techniques have been developed, which require shorter operation times and do not necessitate hospitalization, making them widely applicable.
To avoid allergens and reduce irritants, it is important to wear masks, maintain a clean home environment, regularly wash bedding, avoid extreme temperature/humidity changes, and minimize exposure to air pollution.
Therefore, any contact with allergens or irritants can potentially trigger nasal allergies.
It is advisable to seek evaluation and treatment from an otolaryngologist.

Wishing you peace and health.

Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Chi Chao-Yun.

Reply Date: 2016/09/30

More Info

Understanding seasonal nasal allergies is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms that are characteristic of allergic rhinitis, which can be exacerbated by seasonal changes, particularly during the summer months.

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is an allergic response to specific allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. The symptoms you described, including nasal congestion, dryness, a burning sensation, and difficulty breathing, are typical of this condition. Additionally, the sensation of having something stuck in your throat (often referred to as post-nasal drip), itchy eyes, and increased discomfort when exposed to strong scents or cleaning products further support the diagnosis of allergies.

Seasonal Variations
Interestingly, while many individuals with allergic rhinitis find their symptoms worsen in the spring due to pollen from blooming plants, others, like yourself, may experience more severe symptoms in the summer. This can be attributed to various factors, including increased humidity, the presence of mold spores, or even higher levels of certain pollen types during this season. The fact that you feel more comfortable in winter suggests that the drier air may help alleviate some of your symptoms, as humidity can sometimes exacerbate nasal congestion and irritation.

Management Strategies
1. Avoidance of Triggers: The first step in managing allergic rhinitis is to identify and avoid triggers. Since you mentioned sensitivity to fragrances and cleaning products, it would be beneficial to minimize exposure to these substances. Opt for fragrance-free products and ensure good ventilation when using cleaning agents.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines (like loratadine or cetirizine) can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Nasal corticosteroids (like fluticasone or mometasone) are also effective in reducing inflammation and nasal congestion. If you haven't found relief with the medications prescribed, it might be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of adjusting your treatment plan.

3. Nasal Irrigation: Using a saline nasal spray or performing nasal irrigation can help clear allergens and mucus from your nasal passages, providing relief from congestion and dryness.

4. Allergy Testing: If you haven't already, consider consulting an allergist for comprehensive allergy testing. This can help identify specific allergens that trigger your symptoms, allowing for more targeted management strategies.

5. Immunotherapy: If your symptoms are severe and persistent, you might want to discuss the option of allergy shots (immunotherapy) with your healthcare provider. This treatment gradually desensitizes your immune system to specific allergens over time.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a clean environment, using air purifiers, and regularly washing bedding can help reduce allergen exposure. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier in dry conditions may also alleviate nasal dryness.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms are consistent with allergic rhinitis, and while seasonal variations can influence the severity of your condition, effective management strategies are available. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and symptoms. By implementing avoidance strategies, utilizing medications, and considering further evaluation, you can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce the impact of seasonal allergies on your daily activities.

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