Allergic rhinitis Health Article

Expectations (prognosis)

Most symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be readily treated.

In some cases (particularly children), people may outgrow an allergy as the immune system becomes less sensitive to the allergen. However, as a general rule, once a substance causes allergies for an individual, it can continue to affect the person over the long term.

More severe cases of allergic rhinitis require immunotherapy (allergy shots) or removal of tissue in the nose or sinuses.

Complications

• Drowsiness and other side effects of antihistamines
• Side effects of other medications
• Sinusitis
• Nasal polyps
• Disruption of lifestyle (usually not severe)

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if severe symptoms of allergies or hay fever occur, if previously successful treatment has become ineffective, or if your symptoms do not respond to treatment.

Prevention

Symptoms can sometimes be prevented by avoiding known allergens. During the pollen season, people with hay fever should remain indoors in an air-conditioned atmosphere whenever possible:

• Most trees produce pollen in the spring.
• Grasses usually produce pollen during the late spring and summer.
• Ragweed and other late-blooming plants produce pollen during late summer and early autumn.

For people who are sensitive to certain indoor allergens, dust mite covers for mattresses and pillowcases are recommended, as well as avoiding culprit pets or other triggers.