What Causes Allergic Rhinitis?

Also called hay fever or allergies, allergic rhinitis causes itchy eyes, a runny nose, and congestion. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that from April 2008 to 2009, 16.9 million Americans experienced hay fever.

Identification

• Allergic rhinitis occurs when you encounter an object that your body mistakenly thinks is harmful, causing your immune system to create antibodies. When you come near the object again, your body releases a protein called histamine due to the antibodies.

Effects

• When your body releases histamine, the protein has two effects upon the body: inflammation and muscle contraction. This leads to swollen, watery eyes, sneezing and difficulty breathing.

Types of Allergens

• Some allergy triggers are seasonal, such as the pollen from trees or grasses, in the spring or summer or spores during warm weather. Other triggers occur year-round, including dust mites, cockroaches and dander from animals.

Risks

• According to the Mayo Clinic, males and firstborn children are at higher risk for developing allergic rhinitis than other people. In addition, family history, being born during pollen season and exposure to cigarette smoke in infancy also contribute to the development of hay fever.

Solutions

• Corticosteroids, antihistamines, decongestants and prescription drugs like Montelukast or Atrovent may help eliminate your symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Allergy shots and rinsing the nasal passages are other possible treatments.