Long-Term Nasal Allergies: Seeking Effective Treatment Options

Chronic nasal allergies?

Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from nasal allergies for many years.
It almost occurs year-round.
Every morning when I wake up, I sneeze and have a runny nose.
When it gets severe, I have a continuous runny nose all day long.
I also experience nasal congestion before going to bed, which disrupts my sleep.
I have visited an otolaryngologist, but the symptoms only subside with medication.
As soon as I stop taking the medication, the symptoms return immediately.
Is there a possibility for complete cure? If so, where should I go for treatment? I live in Miaoli.
Thank you.

Mingqi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/13

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Nasal allergies are a hereditary condition.
Individuals with this predisposition may experience allergic reactions to temperature changes, certain specific foods, pollen, dust mites, dust, paint, and other allergens.
Symptoms include nasal congestion, clear nasal discharge, itchy eyes, and sneezing.
This condition can be challenging to manage; however, with proper care and appropriate medication, individuals can "live with the condition" and minimize the impact of allergies on their daily lives, reducing discomfort.

To manage symptoms, it is advisable to wear a mask in the morning to prevent immediate exposure to cold air, limit air conditioning use in the summer, reduce the intake of cold drinks and ice products, ensure adequate sleep without staying up late, and engage in regular exercise.
For medication management, severe cases may require the use of Western medicine, while regular use of traditional Chinese medicine can lead to significant improvement over time.

Reply Date: 2004/03/13

More Info

Long-term nasal allergies can be quite challenging to manage, especially when symptoms persist throughout the year, as you've described. Your experience of waking up with sneezing and a runny nose, along with nasal congestion at night, indicates that you may be dealing with allergic rhinitis, which is a common condition triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
From your description, it seems that you have been relying on medications to manage your symptoms, but the fact that they return once you stop taking them suggests that your allergies are not being effectively controlled. While medications such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids can provide relief, they often do not address the underlying cause of the allergies.
In terms of treatment options, there are several approaches you might consider:
1. Allergen Avoidance: Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial. This may involve making changes in your home environment, such as using air purifiers, regularly cleaning to reduce dust, and using hypoallergenic bedding.
2. Immunotherapy: This is a long-term treatment option that involves gradually exposing you to the allergens that trigger your symptoms. This can be done through allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) or sublingual tablets. Immunotherapy can lead to long-lasting relief and may even provide a cure for some individuals. It is essential to consult with an allergist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist who can evaluate your specific situation and determine if you are a candidate for this treatment.

3. Nasal Irrigation: Using saline nasal sprays or performing nasal irrigation can help clear allergens and mucus from your nasal passages, providing symptomatic relief.

4. Medication Management: While you mentioned that medications only work while you are taking them, it may be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of a more comprehensive medication plan. This could include a combination of antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and possibly leukotriene receptor antagonists, which can help manage symptoms more effectively.

5. Consultation with Specialists: Since you live in Miaoli, it would be beneficial to seek out a specialist in allergy and immunology or an ENT doctor who has experience in treating chronic allergic rhinitis. They can perform specific tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to identify your allergens and tailor a treatment plan that suits your needs.

In conclusion, while complete cure may not be guaranteed for everyone with long-term nasal allergies, there are effective treatment options available that can significantly improve your quality of life. It is essential to work closely with a healthcare provider who can guide you through the process of managing your allergies effectively. If you are looking for specialists in your area, consider reaching out to local hospitals or clinics that have an allergy department or ENT specialists. Your health and comfort are paramount, and with the right approach, you can find relief from your symptoms.

Similar Q&A

Effective Treatments for Chronic Nasal Allergies: Beyond Surgery

I have severe nasal allergies (itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion) almost year-round, and I don't want to take medication every day anymore. I have undergone laser treatment to remove nasal polyps, but the allergies returned after about a year. I would like t...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Currently, the main treatment remains focused on medication and nasal sprays, which are generally quite effective in controlling symptoms. Nasal laser treatment primarily aims to alleviate nasal congestion. Allergen desensitization therapy is currently less commonly perfor...

Managing Allergic Rhinitis: Long-Term Solutions and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor: I previously visited a doctor for my nasal allergies. My symptoms included inferior turbinate hypertrophy, a lot of yellow mucus in my nasal cavity while sleeping, and nasal congestion. The doctor prescribed me Montelukast and a nasal spray, which worked quite well ...

Dr. Jian Huangqi reply Otolaryngology
Nasal congestion accompanied by yellow mucus in the nasal cavity may indicate sinusitis. You can visit my specialty clinic for examination and treatment.

Managing Allergic Rhinitis: Long-Term Solutions for Persistent Symptoms

I have allergies that cause sneezing and a runny nose, and I often visit an otolaryngologist. Sometimes it gets better, but then the allergies return. Corticosteroids are somewhat effective, but they only address the symptoms and not the root cause. Once I stop using them, the al...

Dr. Hong Yiming reply Otolaryngology
Allergies are primarily a condition of the immune system rather than a disease. What you described can only alleviate the symptoms. If you want a permanent solution, you could consider relocating. However, it's uncertain whether you would be allergic to pollen in a foreign c...

Understanding Allergic Rhinitis: Treatment Options and Long-Term Management

1. I would like to ask why the medications and treatment methods prescribed by the nearby small clinic were completely ineffective in controlling my nasal congestion and runny nose, and I had to go to a more distant regional hospital to manage my symptoms. Is there a difference i...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, allergic rhinitis is related to individual constitution and climate. Long-term use of medication does not have significant side effects; however, since the drugs are metabolized by the kidneys, caution is advised for those with impaired renal function. If symptoms persist ...