What it is
The immune system overreacts to a harmless substance and releases chemicals such as histamine.
Avoiding triggers where possible, antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays help most people. Immunotherapy (desensitisation) may be offered when symptoms are severe and the trigger is known.
Common signs
- Sneezing and an itchy nose
- A blocked or runny nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes
- Cough and tiredness from poor sleep
How it is usually diagnosed
- Usually recognised from the symptoms and when they happen
- Skin prick tests or blood tests for specific IgE if the trigger is unclear
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Allergy test results
- A diary of when symptoms happen
- A list of treatments tried and how well they worked
- Letters from allergy or ENT clinics
Questions to ask your doctor
- What am I allergic to, and how can I reduce exposure?
- How should I use my nasal spray to get the most from it?
- Would immunotherapy be an option?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Wheezing that does not improve with your inhaler
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.