Before describing allergic rhinitis, it would be more accurate to state what an allergy is. Allergy is an overreaction of our body to external substances. This reaction is not the same for everyone. Our body's response to the allergen ranges from mild redness and itching to respiratory suppression. Allergic rhinitis, on the other hand, is an allergic reaction of the nasal mucosa and manifests itself with symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing attacks, the need for constant throat cleaning, and itching of the palate.
Allergic rhinitis is seasonal, that is, common in spring and autumn. It is sometimes seen throughout the year. In the seasonal type, pollen, fungal spores, and plant dust are the main causes, while the work environment, habits such as smoking/hookah, home environment and the city where the person lives are effective throughout the year. Allergic rhinitis is not a contagious disease, it is 50% genetically transmitted. In the remaining 50%, the environmental factors we mentioned are effective.
In allergic rhinitis, conditions such as sneezing, post-nasal drip and nasal discharge, which we mentioned above, respond to medical treatment. However, if the process continues without treatment, nasal congestion and soft tissue edema called polyps may occur. This situation can also fill the sinuses and turn into what we call chronic sinusitis. When it comes to these stages, medical treatment alone is not enough, surgical interventions are now added to the treatment.
What can we do to reduce this progression of allergic rhinitis and increase life comfort? First of all, there should be no furry animals such as birds, cats and dogs in the house. Materials such as pillow quilts should be fiber. Organic cotton and wool materials trigger allergies. There should be no flowering plants in the house. There should be as few carpets as possible. During the active period of allergy, medical treatments should be used by getting help from physicians related to the subject. The home and workplace environment should be ventilated frequently.
Allergy is a disease that reduces the quality of life and is very common today. It is not a temporary situation. Once started, it can continue for life as attacks. For this reason, if help is sought from our colleague at the beginning, it will at least stop or slow down the progression towards the nasal polyp. We reduce congestion and side problems of allergies. Stay well…
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