Frequent sneezing, congestion or a runny nose may indicate allergic rhinitis. Understand common airborne triggers and discover practical ways to manage symptoms.
Allergic rhinitis is a very common condition. For some people, symptoms are mild and occasional, while for others they can significantly impact daily life and overall wellbeing. The good news is that with an effective management plan, symptoms and discomfort can usually be well controlled.
Allergic rhinitis affects around one in five people in Australia. It occurs in approximately one in five adults, one in ten teenagers and about one in twenty young children.
Despite its name, allergic rhinitis is not caused by hay and does not cause a fever.
Allergic rhinitis occurs when allergens in the environment come into contact with the lining of the nose and/or eyes. Common triggers include pollens (from grasses, weeds and trees), dust mites, moulds and animal dander (tiny flakes of skin, fur, hair or feathers).
The immune system reacts to these usually harmless substances, triggering inflammation and the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
If symptoms appear mainly during spring and summer, this is known as seasonal allergic rhinitis. It is usually triggered by pollen from grasses, weeds or flowering plants such as wattle. Your doctor can often help identify which pollen is responsible.
If symptoms occur all year round, this is called perennial allergic rhinitis. It is commonly caused by allergens that are present throughout the year, such as dust mites, moulds or animal dander.
Some people may also frequently clear their throat due to mucus draining from the sinuses to the back of the throat.
Difficulty sleeping
Daytime tiredness
Headaches
Poor concentration
Frequent ear or sinus infections
Asthma symptoms that are harder to control
Your doctor will diagnose allergic rhinitis and/or allergic conjunctivitis based on your symptoms, examination findings, and allergy test results. Looking inside your nose and examining your eyes can provide helpful clues.
Skin prick testing and/or blood tests can help identify the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms.
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