Allergic Rhinitis and Reactions After Novavax COVID-19 Vaccination

Allergic rhinitis and reactions after COVID-19 vaccination?

Hello, doctor.
I have a history of allergies, including allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis.
I usually experience a runny nose and nasal congestion upon waking up, which lasts until noon.
On August 9th, I received the first dose of the Novavax vaccine.
Aside from tenderness at the injection site and mild head pressure, I did not experience any other discomfort.
On August 10th, I woke up with a runny nose and nasal congestion as usual, but the runny nose seemed to increase throughout the day and persisted without relief, even after nasal irrigation and showering (which used to help).
The nasal discharge is clear and watery, and when I tilt my head down, it drips like water onto the floor.
Aside from the runny nose and tenderness at the injection site, I have no other significant symptoms or similar cold symptoms.
I did not have any particular exposure to allergens that day; I stayed in my usual room, ate similar food, and did the same activities as always.
I would like to ask: 1.
This should not be a vaccine side effect, right? I saw a document from the Ministry of Health and Welfare that mentioned a runny nose as an allergic reaction to the vaccine, but it was described as an immediate reaction.
Since I experienced this 24 hours later, could it still be considered an allergy to the vaccine? 2.
If this is considered an allergic reaction to the vaccine, would it still be appropriate to receive the second dose of the same brand?

Flyingsheep, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/10

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
The runny nose caused by the vaccine typically resolves within 24 hours.
Therefore, your condition may be due to an infection or other allergens.
It is recommended to first test for COVID-19.
If the result is negative, you can proceed with symptomatic treatment.
2.
If you only have a runny nose, it does not necessarily indicate an allergy to the vaccine, and you can still receive the same type of vaccine.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/08/10

More Info

When it comes to allergic rhinitis and reactions after receiving the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, it's important to consider both the nature of your symptoms and the timing of their onset in relation to the vaccination.
1. Understanding Your Symptoms: You mentioned that you have a history of allergic rhinitis and that you experienced clear, watery nasal discharge and nasal congestion after receiving the Novavax vaccine. Given your pre-existing condition, it is plausible that your symptoms are a continuation of your allergic rhinitis rather than a direct reaction to the vaccine. Allergic rhinitis can be triggered by various factors, including environmental allergens, and it is not uncommon for individuals with this condition to experience fluctuations in symptoms.
The timing of your symptoms is also significant. Vaccines can cause side effects, but these typically manifest within a few hours to a day after administration. In your case, the symptoms appeared the day after vaccination, which is within a reasonable timeframe for vaccine-related side effects. However, the nature of your symptoms—specifically, the clear, watery nasal discharge—suggests that this may be more related to your underlying allergic condition rather than an allergic reaction to the vaccine itself.
According to health guidelines, immediate allergic reactions to vaccines usually occur within minutes to a few hours after administration, and they often present with symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Since your symptoms developed 24 hours later and are consistent with your known allergies, it is less likely that they are a direct result of the vaccine.

2. Future Vaccination Considerations: If your symptoms are indeed related to your allergic rhinitis and not an allergic reaction to the vaccine, you should still be able to receive the second dose of the Novavax vaccine. It is important to communicate your history of allergic rhinitis to the healthcare provider administering the vaccine, as they can take this into account and monitor you for any potential reactions.
If you were to experience similar symptoms after the second dose, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine whether these symptoms are indeed related to the vaccine or if they are simply a manifestation of your allergic condition.
In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they are likely a continuation of your allergic rhinitis rather than a direct reaction to the Novavax vaccine. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you have a history of allergies. They can provide guidance on whether to proceed with the second dose and how to manage your allergic symptoms effectively. Additionally, if you notice any new or unusual symptoms after your next vaccination, be sure to report these to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

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