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Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis affects up to 20% of the adult population of the United States. The prevalence is greater in Southern California than in most other parts of the country. This is partly related to our weather conditions and the fact that we do have Santa Ana winds which frequently will exacerbate the symptoms.

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis usually include nasal congestion, nasal drainage, itching of the eyes, and itching of the throat.

It is also associated with asthma. Up to 40% of people with allergic rhinitis can have asthma. The cause of allergic rhinitis is usually related to sensitization of the mucous membranes to an allergen such as grasses, weeds, trees, house dust, or even mold. This subsequently will produce an inflammatory reaction, particularly causing inflammation of the mucous membranes.

Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis usually involves the performance of allergy testing which is usually skin testing in the form of either intradermal injections or sometimes scratch testing. A new form of testing is under investigation, called sublingual testing where the allergen is placed underneath the tongue.

Treatment of allergies varies depending on the severity of the symptoms. Simple allergy symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medications. More severe cases require prescription medications including antihistamines, intranasal steroid products, and intranasal antihistamines.

Surgical procedures which are usually minor can be performed in the office in the form of somnoplasty which reduces nasal congestion.

Occasionally, allergic rhinitis affects the sinuses and will cause obstruction of the sinus openings which occasionally requires surgical intervention.