Rhinitis Treatment
Rhinitis is a chronic (long-term) condition that affects your nose and eyes. It is characterized by symptoms like runny nose, itchy nose and throat, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the nose or nasal sinuses, postnasal drip, snoring, and obstructed breathing. Rhinitis is caused by a combination of factors, including allergies and nonallergic causes. The first step in managing your symptoms is avoiding triggers, if possible. The next steps include oral medications, nasal sprays and allergy shots. If your rhinitis is not controlled by lifestyle changes, a prescription medication may be recommended by an allergist.비염치료
Allergic rhinitis is triggered when your immune system mistakenly identifies a normally harmless substance as an intruder. This triggers the release of natural chemicals, such as histamine, that cause symptoms in the nose, eyes and ears. Common allergens that trigger rhinitis include pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander, cockroach waste, cigarette smoke, perfumes and strong odors. Some people also have a food allergy that triggers their rhinitis. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is caused by airborne pollen from different plants that vary in availability throughout the year. Perennial (year-round) allergic rhinitis is often caused by allergens such as pet hair and dander, mold, house dust, and cockroach waste.
The symptom-relieving medicines used for rhinitis include antihistamines, glucocorticoids and steroid nasal sprays. Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines are available in tablet form and as nasal sprays. These can help reduce sneezing, itching and watery eyes. They are most effective for reducing seasonal allergies and should be taken regularly, preferably before exposure to known allergens. A nasal steroid, such as fluticasone (brand name: Nasonex), can relieve the runny nose and itchy nose of allergic rhinitis. It should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. A combination glucocorticoid/antihistamine nasal spray, such as azelastine (brand name: Dymista), has been shown to be more effective than either drug alone in reducing rhinitis symptoms.
Allergen immunotherapy is a long-term treatment strategy that helps to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic rhinitis. This is a series of injections given in the doctor’s office over several months. Another option is sublingual immunotherapy, a pill that dissolves under the tongue. It is a less costly alternative to the injectable therapy but has only been shown to be effective in a few studies in patients with PER.
Whether or not immunotherapy is right for you will depend on your individual situation, such as how severe your symptoms are and whether or not you have a family history of asthma or other health problems. The best way to find out more about immunotherapy is to talk to an allergist. They will be able to explain how the treatment works and what the potential side effects are. They will also be able to help you make the right decision for you and your family.라경찬한의원