Allergic rhinitis is also commonly called hay fever. It occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens in the air, such as pollen, dust mites, and animal dander.

This causes inflammation in your nasal passages, leading to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, throat, and nose. For effective treatment of allergic rhinitis, you need to identify the allergen that triggers your symptoms. In addition to avoiding allergens, you can use medications and remedies to control your symptoms.

Here are some treatment options for allergic rhinitis.

Medications for Treating Allergic Rhinitis

There are different types of medications used to treat allergic rhinitis. These include:.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that is released by your immune system in response to allergens.

Histamine causes inflammation and triggers symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Antihistamines reduce these symptoms by blocking the action of histamine. Antihistamines can be taken orally or as nasal sprays or eye drops.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that can reduce inflammation in your nasal passages. They are available as nasal sprays, inhalers, and pills.

Nasal corticosteroids are the most effective type of corticosteroid for allergic rhinitis, as they directly target the inflammation in your nose.

Decongestants

Decongestants are drugs that can relieve nasal congestion by constricting the blood vessels in your nasal passages. They also reduce swelling and congestion in your nasal passages. Decongestants are available as pills and nasal sprays.

However, decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for more than three days, as they can cause rebound congestion.

Leukotriene inhibitors

Leukotrienes are chemicals that are released by your immune system in response to allergens. They cause inflammation and can trigger symptoms like coughing and wheezing.

Leukotriene inhibitors block the action of leukotrienes, reducing inflammation and symptoms. They are available as pills.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy involves exposing your immune system to small amounts of allergens over time. This helps your immune system build up a tolerance to the allergen, reducing your symptoms. Immunotherapy is available as allergy shots or sublingual tablets.

It is a long-term treatment that can take several months or years to be effective.

Home Remedies for Treating Allergic Rhinitis

In addition to medications, there are several home remedies that may help reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis. These include:.

Nasal irrigation

Nasal irrigation involves rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution using a neti pot or bulb syringe. This can help flush out allergens and mucus from your nose, reducing congestion and irritation.

Honey

Honey has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis. However, it is important to note that honey can also contain pollen, which may trigger an allergic reaction in some people.

Essential oils

Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce congestion, inflammation, and allergic reactions.

However, essential oils should be used with caution, as they can be irritating to some people, especially if applied directly to the skin or ingested.

Steam inhalation

Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or shower can help reduce nasal congestion and irritation. Adding essential oils or herbs like eucalyptus, peppermint, or chamomile can also enhance the benefits of steam inhalation.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help strengthen your immune system and reduce inflammation. They are available as supplements or can be found in foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables.

Conclusion

Allergic rhinitis can be an uncomfortable and frustrating condition to deal with, but with the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Medications like antihistamines, corticosteroids, decongestants, and leukotriene inhibitors can reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Home remedies like nasal irrigation, honey, essential oils, steam inhalation, and probiotics can also be effective in reducing symptoms.

It is important to work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you and to avoid allergens that trigger your symptoms.