Allergic Rhinitis Treatment

Healthliya

22 Jul, 2025

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is an allergic response that occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. When your body comes into contact with allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores, it treats them as threats—even though they're usually harmless. This triggers the release of histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation in your nasal passages, eyes, and throat, leading to a cascade of irritating symptoms.

This condition affects millions of people worldwide, and while it's not life-threatening, it can drastically affect your quality of life. From constant sneezing to itchy eyes and a runny nose, the discomfort can be relentless. Allergic rhinitis can strike seasonally, especially during spring and fall when pollen levels rise, or it can persist year-round due to indoor allergens.

The immune system's hypersensitive reaction is the main culprit behind allergic rhinitis. People with other allergic conditions like eczema or asthma are more likely to suffer from it. The good news? It's manageable with the right combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and preventive strategies. We'll dive into all of that in this guide.

Types of Allergic Rhinitis: Seasonal vs. Perennial

Not all allergic rhinitis is the same. It primarily comes in two flavors: seasonal and perennial. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right treatment.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR): Often referred to as hay fever, SAR flares up at certain times of the year—typically spring, summer, or early fall. It’s usually triggered by outdoor allergens like tree pollen, grass pollen, or weed pollen. People with SAR often notice symptoms worsen when pollen counts are high, which is why weather and location matter a lot.
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (PAR): This type persists year-round and is triggered by allergens that are present in your indoor environment. Think dust mites, cockroach droppings, mold, and pet dander. If you’re sneezing in December as much as you are in April, you’re probably dealing with PAR.

While both types share similar symptoms—sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes—their triggers and treatment timelines differ. Seasonal cases may require short-term treatment bursts, while perennial rhinitis demands consistent management. Some people even suffer from a combination of both, making things a bit more complex but still manageable with a smart plan.

Common Causes and Triggers

Allergic rhinitis is all about the triggers. Knowing what sets off your symptoms is the first step to getting them under control. Here's a breakdown of the most common culprits:

Pollen: One of the most well-known triggers, pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can wreak havoc during certain times of the year. Different plants pollinate at different seasons, which is why some people are only affected in spring while others suffer in fall.
Dust Mites: Tiny insects that live in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. These critters feed on dead skin cells and thrive in warm, humid environments.
Pet Dander: It’s not the fur but the proteins in pet saliva, skin flakes, and urine that trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
Mold Spores: Mold thrives in damp places like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Spores released into the air can be potent allergens.
Cockroach Droppings: A less-known but powerful allergen, especially in urban environments where cockroach infestations are common.
Environmental Pollutants: Smoke, strong perfumes, car exhaust, and even cleaning agents can irritate the nasal lining and worsen symptoms, especially in people with sensitive sinuses.

Identifying your specific triggers usually requires some detective work. Allergy testing—either through skin prick tests or blood tests—can offer clarity. Once you know what you're allergic to, you can start targeting it with specific strategies, from avoiding the allergen to selecting appropriate treatments.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Allergic rhinitis doesn’t hold back when it comes to symptoms. They might start off mild but can quickly become persistent and frustrating. The most common signs include:

Sneezing fits: Sudden, uncontrollable sneezing, especially after waking up or exposure to allergens.
Runny nose: Clear mucus running continuously, often leading to frequent nose wiping or tissue use.
Nasal congestion: Blocked or stuffy nose that makes it hard to breathe, especially at night.
Itchy nose, eyes, or throat: A hallmark symptom that sets allergic rhinitis apart from the common cold.
Watery, red eyes: Often paired with a burning sensation.
Postnasal drip: Mucus dripping down the back of the throat, causing coughing or a sore throat.
Fatigue: Poor sleep from congestion and constant irritation can leave you feeling exhausted.

These symptoms can mimic a cold, but allergic rhinitis is usually distinguished by its timing and consistency. If your symptoms linger longer than 10 days or recur at specific times of year or in certain environments, chances are you’re dealing with allergies rather than an infection.

How Allergic Rhinitis is Diagnosed

Diagnosis usually starts with a simple conversation. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they occur, and whether anything seems to make them worse. A family history of allergies often supports the case for allergic rhinitis.

From there, one or more of the following may be used:

Physical Examination: Looking for swollen nasal passages, red eyes, and postnasal drip.
Skin Prick Test: Tiny amounts of allergens are pricked into your skin to observe for allergic reactions. A red, itchy bump indicates sensitivity.
Blood Test (RAST or ELISA): Measures the level of IgE antibodies in response to specific allergens.
Nasal Smear: A sample of nasal discharge is examined under a microscope to detect eosinophils, white blood cells that suggest an allergic reaction.

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor can recommend a targeted treatment plan based on your specific allergies and lifestyle.

When to See a Doctor

While mild allergic rhinitis can often be managed with OTC meds and avoidance strategies, there are times when you need to bring in the pros. You should see a doctor if:

Your symptoms last more than a few weeks and don’t improve with OTC treatment.
You experience difficulty breathing or wheezing.
Your sleep is consistently disturbed due to nasal congestion or coughing.
You develop complications like sinus infections or ear infections.
You want to explore allergy testing or long-term solutions like immunotherapy.

Don’t tough it out—there’s a wide range of treatments that can dramatically improve your daily comfort and quality of life. Allergic rhinitis may not be curable, but with the right approach, it’s absolutely controllable.

Lifestyle and Environmental Changes

Allergen Avoidance Techniques

The most basic yet most effective treatment for allergic rhinitis is avoiding the allergen altogether. While that might sound impossible—especially if you're allergic to something as pervasive as pollen or dust mites—there are real, practical steps you can take:

Stay indoors during peak pollen hours: Pollen counts are highest in the morning and on dry, windy days. Keep windows shut and use air conditioning with HEPA filters.
Use allergen-proof bedding: Encase pillows and mattresses in dust-mite-proof covers.
Wash bedding frequently: Hot water (130°F or higher) kills dust mites.
Minimize carpets and curtains: These trap allergens like dust and pet dander. Go for hardwood or tile floors, and washable blinds instead.
Keep pets out of bedrooms: You may love your furry friend, but your sinuses won’t. Make bedrooms a dander-free zone.
Clean regularly: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and avoid dry dusting which spreads allergens into the air.

Avoidance isn’t just about being cautious—it's a proactive strategy to reduce your exposure and help your medications work better.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Antihistamines – Fast Symptom Relief

Antihistamines are the frontline defense when it comes to managing allergic rhinitis. These medications work by blocking the effects of histamine, the chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction. The result? Reduced sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes—basically, relief from the most annoying symptoms.

There are two types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation.

First-generation antihistamines (like diphenhydramine, found in Benadryl) are effective but often cause drowsiness. They’re better suited for nighttime use or severe flare-ups.
Second-generation antihistamines (like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine) offer long-lasting relief without causing sleepiness. These are ideal for daily use.

Here are some popular OTC antihistamines:

Loratadine (Claritin)
Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

It’s important to take these meds consistently during allergy season or year-round if you have perennial allergies. Don’t wait for symptoms to become severe. Taking antihistamines preemptively, especially during high-pollen days, can reduce the severity of symptoms before they even begin.

Decongestants – Short-Term Relief

When nasal congestion becomes unbearable, decongestants can help you breathe again—fast. These medications work by shrinking swollen blood vessels in your nasal passages, providing temporary relief from stuffiness.

Decongestants come in two primary forms:

Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
Nasal sprays like oxymetazoline (Afrin)

But beware—these are not for long-term use. Nasal decongestant sprays, in particular, should not be used for more than three consecutive days. Overuse can lead to a rebound effect, where your congestion gets worse instead of better. This condition, called rhinitis medicamentosa, is a real risk.

Oral decongestants can cause side effects like increased heart rate, insomnia, and jitteriness, especially in people with heart conditions or high blood pressure. Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before using them if you have underlying health issues.

While decongestants don’t treat the underlying allergy, they’re a powerful tool in your symptom-relief toolkit when used wisely.

Nasal Sprays – Steroid vs. Saline

Nasal sprays are a game-changer in allergic rhinitis treatment. They're direct, fast-acting, and highly effective, especially for people dealing with nasal symptoms like congestion and postnasal drip.

There are two main types of nasal sprays used for allergies:

Steroid nasal sprays – These are considered one of the most effective treatments for allergic rhinitis. They reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and help prevent symptoms before they start. Popular options include:
- Fluticasone (Flonase)
- Mometasone (Nasonex)
- Budesonide (Rhinocort)
These sprays are safe for long-term use and are even available over the counter in many countries. They may take a few days to reach full effectiveness, so consistency is key.
Saline nasal sprays – These aren’t medicated but help flush allergens and mucus out of your nose. They’re especially useful for clearing nasal passages before using a steroid spray. Think of them as the prep step that helps everything else work better.

When using nasal sprays, technique matters. Always spray away from the nasal septum (the middle cartilage) and aim slightly outward. This prevents irritation and nosebleeds. If used correctly, nasal sprays can be a cornerstone of your allergy treatment plan.

Prescription Medications

Stronger Antihistamines and Nasal Corticosteroids

Sometimes, OTC meds just don’t cut it—especially if your allergic rhinitis is severe or persistent. That’s where prescription-strength medications come in. These options offer more potent symptom control and are tailored to people whose allergies significantly interfere with their daily life.

Prescription antihistamines, such as desloratadine (Clarinex) and levocetirizine (Xyzal), provide enhanced relief with fewer side effects. They’re great for people who don’t respond well to common OTC options.

Prescription nasal corticosteroids are also a game changer. While similar to OTC versions, prescription sprays may include higher dosages or different formulations that work better for some individuals. Your doctor may prescribe:

Beclomethasone (Beconase AQ)
Ciclesonide (Omnaris)
Fluticasone furoate (Veramyst)

These help manage inflammation more effectively, particularly for people with year-round symptoms or those who are at risk for sinus infections or nasal polyps.

Working with your healthcare provider to find the right balance of medications is essential, especially if you need sustained, daily relief. Don’t hesitate to explore stronger options if your current regimen isn’t doing the trick.

Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

A lesser-known but effective medication class for allergic rhinitis is leukotriene receptor antagonists, with montelukast (Singulair) being the most commonly prescribed. These drugs block leukotrienes—a group of inflammatory chemicals released during an allergic reaction.

While antihistamines handle histamine, leukotriene blockers target another pathway in your immune response. This dual-action makes them especially helpful for people who also suffer from asthma or nighttime allergy symptoms.

Montelukast is taken orally once a day and can be used alongside other medications like antihistamines and nasal steroids. However, it’s important to note that montelukast has been associated with possible mental health side effects in some individuals, including mood changes and sleep disturbances. Always report any unusual symptoms to your doctor right away.

For many, though, montelukast is a safe and highly effective addition to their treatment plan—particularly when allergies and asthma go hand-in-hand.

Immunotherapy – Allergy Shots and Tablets

Immunotherapy is the only treatment that addresses the root cause of allergic rhinitis. Rather than simply masking symptoms, it retrains your immune system to stop overreacting to allergens. Think of it as a long-term investment in your allergy-free future.

There are two main types:

Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy – SCIT):
- Administered in a doctor's office.
- Start with weekly injections that gradually reduce in frequency over 3-5 years.
- Effective for allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
Sublingual tablets (SLIT):
- Placed under the tongue daily.
- Examples include Oralair, Grastek, and Ragwitek (for grass and ragweed pollen).
- Can be taken at home, reducing the need for frequent office visits.

Immunotherapy is ideal for people with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis who don’t respond well to medications or want to reduce long-term reliance on drugs. While the process takes time, many people experience long-lasting relief—some even permanently outgrowing their allergies.

Natural and Alternative Therapies

Herbal Remedies and Supplements

Many people turn to natural remedies to manage allergic rhinitis, especially if they prefer to avoid pharmaceuticals or want to supplement their current treatment. While not all herbal remedies are backed by robust scientific evidence, some have shown promise in relieving symptoms.

Here are a few popular options:

Butterbur: One of the most researched herbs for allergic rhinitis. Studies have found that butterbur can be as effective as some antihistamines without causing drowsiness.
Quercetin: A natural flavonoid found in onions, apples, and tea, quercetin helps stabilize mast cells and prevent the release of histamine.
Stinging nettle: Believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, this plant is often taken in capsule or tea form for allergy relief.
Vitamin C: Known for its immune-boosting properties, it also acts as a natural antihistamine and antioxidant.
Probiotics: These support gut health and may play a role in modulating immune responses to allergens.

Before starting any supplement, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider, especially if you’re on prescription medications or have underlying health conditions. Natural doesn’t always mean risk-free, and some herbs can interact with conventional treatments.

Acupuncture and Holistic Practices

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, has been gaining popularity as an alternative therapy for allergic rhinitis. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to restore energy balance and stimulate healing.

Several studies have found that acupuncture can reduce allergy symptoms and improve quality of life in people with hay fever. It appears to work by reducing inflammation, enhancing immune function, and possibly modulating the body's histamine response.

Other holistic approaches include:

Aromatherapy: Using essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for temporary nasal relief.
Yoga and deep breathing exercises: These can help with relaxation, improving airflow, and supporting the body’s natural immune function.
Homeopathy: Though controversial and lacking strong scientific backing, some users claim relief from homeopathic allergy remedies.

While results can vary, many people find combining holistic practices with traditional medicine provides a well-rounded and effective approach to allergy management.

Diet and Immune-Boosting Strategies

Your diet plays a huge role in how your immune system behaves, and a stronger immune system can mean fewer allergic flare-ups. While no food can cure allergic rhinitis, eating the right nutrients may help your body manage symptoms better.

Focus on:

Anti-inflammatory foods: Think fatty fish (salmon, sardines), leafy greens, berries, and nuts. These help reduce systemic inflammation that worsens allergy symptoms.
Foods rich in quercetin: Apples, onions, grapes, and broccoli are excellent choices.
Probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can help improve gut flora and balance immune responses.
Vitamin D and Omega-3s: Found in fortified foods, eggs, and fish, these nutrients support immune health and may reduce allergic inflammation.

Also, stay hydrated—plenty of water helps thin mucus and flush allergens from your system. Avoid highly processed foods, excessive sugar, and alcohol, all of which can exacerbate inflammation and lower immunity.

Combining dietary changes with other treatments can help build a strong defense system against chronic allergies.

Treating Allergic Rhinitis in Children

Symptoms Specific to Kids

Children with allergic rhinitis may not always articulate what they’re feeling, so symptoms often show up in other ways. In addition to the usual sneezing, runny nose, and congestion, kids may experience:

Frequent nose rubbing or “allergic salute”
Dark circles under the eyes (allergic shiners)
Mouth breathing
Persistent cough or throat clearing
Trouble sleeping or irritability

These symptoms can easily be mistaken for colds or sinus infections, especially in younger kids. If you notice these signs regularly—particularly during certain seasons or after exposure to pets or dust—it may be time to get them tested for allergies.

Safe Treatment Options

Treating allergic rhinitis in children involves finding safe and effective strategies that won’t interfere with their growth or development. Most pediatricians recommend starting with:

Environmental control: Reduce exposure to triggers with HEPA filters, allergen-proof bedding, and regular cleaning.
Saline nasal sprays: Gentle and drug-free, these help clear mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.
Non-drowsy antihistamines: Medications like cetirizine or loratadine are approved for children and can control symptoms effectively.
Pediatric nasal corticosteroids: Some steroid sprays are safe for kids aged 2 and up. Always follow dosing instructions precisely.

If over-the-counter solutions don’t work, your child’s doctor might recommend allergy testing and possibly immunotherapy. Early intervention not only controls current symptoms but may also reduce the risk of developing asthma later in life.

Preventive Steps for Parents

Prevention is the best medicine, especially for kids who suffer from allergies year-round. Here’s how parents can help:

Identify and eliminate allergens: Know what your child is allergic to and keep those triggers out of the home as much as possible.
Establish routines: Teach kids to wash hands and face after playing outside, especially during pollen season.
Create an allergy-friendly bedroom: No stuffed animals, heavy curtains, or wall-to-wall carpeting if dust mites are an issue.
Work with schools and caregivers: Make sure teachers and babysitters are aware of your child’s allergies and medications.

Being proactive as a parent can help your child breathe easier and enjoy life with fewer interruptions from their allergies.

Managing Chronic or Severe Allergic Rhinitis

Long-Term Management Strategies

When allergic rhinitis becomes a regular part of your life—day in and day out—it’s no longer just an inconvenience. It’s a chronic condition that needs a strategic, long-term plan to prevent it from dominating your daily routine.

Here’s how to manage it effectively over time:

Establish a daily medication routine: For chronic sufferers, using nasal corticosteroids or second-generation antihistamines every day during allergy season—or year-round for perennial allergies—is often necessary.
Monitor pollen levels: Stay informed using apps or weather reports. When pollen counts spike, stay indoors, close windows, and limit outdoor activity.
Schedule regular doctor visits: Work with an allergist or primary care provider to adjust your treatment plan as needed. Medication needs may change over time.
Consider immunotherapy: As mentioned earlier, this is the only treatment that modifies the immune system to reduce allergic sensitivity long-term.
Lifestyle upgrades: Eat well, sleep better, reduce stress, and avoid smoking or exposure to air pollutants—all of which can trigger or worsen symptoms.

Chronic allergic rhinitis doesn’t have to run your life. With proactive care, symptom control becomes easier, and the impact on your well-being can be drastically reduced.

Coping with Quality of Life Impacts

Living with persistent allergic rhinitis can be draining—physically and emotionally. Lack of sleep, constant congestion, and a foggy head can make it hard to focus, work, or enjoy everyday activities. But you’re not alone—and help is available.

Here’s how to protect your quality of life:

Prioritize sleep: Elevate your head while sleeping, use a humidifier, and treat nasal congestion aggressively to improve rest.
Stay active: Gentle exercise can help reduce inflammation and improve mood, even during allergy season.
Manage mental health: Chronic illness can take a toll emotionally. Don’t ignore feelings of frustration or fatigue. Talk to a mental health professional if you’re struggling.
Join a support group: Online or in-person allergy communities can offer tips, empathy, and solidarity.

It’s not just about treating symptoms—it’s about protecting your overall wellness. With the right support and management strategies, you can reclaim your energy and peace of mind.

Consulting with an Allergist

If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or poorly controlled, it’s time to see an allergist. These specialists are trained to identify triggers, run advanced diagnostic tests, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.

During your visit, you can expect:

A detailed symptom and health history
Allergy testing (skin prick or blood tests)
Discussion of treatment options, including immunotherapy
A plan for managing flare-ups and long-term care

Allergists can make a world of difference, especially if you’ve hit a wall with over-the-counter solutions. Don’t hesitate—get expert help and take back control of your health.

Allergic Rhinitis and Other Conditions

Relationship with Asthma and Sinusitis

Allergic rhinitis rarely exists in a vacuum. It often travels with other respiratory conditions like asthma and sinusitis, and understanding how they connect can make a big difference in treatment.

Asthma: Around 30-60% of people with allergic rhinitis also have asthma. The nasal inflammation can lead to lower airway inflammation, triggering wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Treating rhinitis often improves asthma control.
Sinusitis: Persistent nasal congestion can block sinuses, causing inflammation and infection. If you have frequent sinus infections, your rhinitis may be the underlying cause.
Otitis media (ear infections): Especially in children, nasal swelling can affect the eustachian tubes, increasing the risk of ear problems.

A comprehensive approach that addresses all related conditions is essential for long-term health and symptom control.

How It Affects Sleep and Productivity

Allergic rhinitis doesn’t clock out at bedtime. Nighttime symptoms—like congestion and postnasal drip—can make quality sleep feel impossible. And without good rest, your daytime productivity tanks.

Common complaints include:

Frequent waking up
Snoring or sleep apnea
Daytime fatigue and brain fog
Reduced concentration and memory

To improve sleep:

Use nasal corticosteroids before bed
Elevate your head
Run an air purifier
Stick to a consistent bedtime routine

Improved sleep leads to better energy, mood, and focus—which is why it’s just as important to treat nighttime symptoms as daytime ones.

Emotional and Mental Health Connections

Living with chronic allergic rhinitis can lead to emotional stress. The non-stop symptoms, fatigue, and discomfort can wear down your patience and positivity. Over time, this can evolve into anxiety or depression, especially if you feel like your condition is out of control.

Some tips for protecting your mental well-being:

Acknowledge the stress: It’s okay to admit this is hard. You’re not overreacting.
Practice mindfulness: Meditation, journaling, or gentle yoga can reduce stress.
Talk it out: Whether it’s with friends, a support group, or a therapist—don’t bottle it up.
Seek balance: Take time for hobbies, rest, and connection, even during bad flare-ups.

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Don’t neglect it—support is out there, and you deserve to feel your best in every way.

Prevention and Future Outlook

Can Allergic Rhinitis Be Prevented?

While you can’t change your genetic makeup or entirely eliminate all allergens, you can prevent the severity and frequency of allergic rhinitis episodes.

Here’s how:

Avoid known triggers: Be proactive about your environment.
Use medications preventively: Start taking antihistamines or nasal sprays before allergy season begins.
Get tested: Knowing your specific allergies lets you plan ahead.
Boost your immune system: Healthy habits can make you more resilient to flare-ups.

While full prevention may not be realistic for everyone, flare-up reduction is very achievable with a smart strategy.

Innovations in Allergy Research

The future of allergic rhinitis treatment is bright. New therapies are being developed that offer hope for better, longer-lasting relief.

Some exciting advancements include:

Biologic therapies: Already used for asthma and eczema, these target specific immune system pathways.
Genetic research: Scientists are learning more about hereditary allergy risks.
Next-gen immunotherapy: Faster, safer, and more effective forms of allergy shots and tablets are being developed.

These innovations aim to go beyond symptom relief and offer real changes in how the body reacts to allergens.

Living Better with Allergies

You don’t have to let allergic rhinitis limit your life. With the right plan, you can travel, work, play, and sleep comfortably. It may take some trial and error, but the results are worth it.

Here’s your living-better checklist:

Understand your triggers
Use the right mix of medications and lifestyle changes
Stay consistent with treatment
Seek expert help when needed

Allergies don’t define you—and with the right approach, they don’t have to control you, either.

Conclusion

Allergic rhinitis is more than just a nuisance—it’s a chronic condition that impacts your quality of life, productivity, sleep, and emotional health. But the good news? It’s also one of the most manageable conditions with the right information, tools, and support.

From identifying your triggers and making lifestyle changes, to using over-the-counter treatments and exploring advanced options like immunotherapy, there’s a wide range of ways to take control. Whether your symptoms are mild and seasonal or chronic and intense, there’s no reason you have to suffer in silence.

Take action, build a plan, and get the relief you deserve. You’re not alone in this, and with a little persistence, better days (and nights) are ahead.

FAQs

1. What is the best treatment for allergic rhinitis?
The best treatment depends on your specific symptoms and triggers. Most people find success with a combination of antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and lifestyle changes. Immunotherapy offers long-term relief for more severe cases.

2. Can allergic rhinitis go away permanently?
In some cases, especially in children, allergic rhinitis can improve or go away with age. However, for many adults, it tends to be a lifelong condition. Immunotherapy can help reduce or eliminate symptoms for the long term.

3. How do I know if I have allergic rhinitis or a cold?
Allergic rhinitis causes persistent sneezing, itchy eyes, and clear nasal discharge, often triggered by allergens. Colds usually include sore throat, body aches, and fever and resolve within a week or two.

4. Is allergic rhinitis dangerous if untreated?
While not life-threatening, untreated allergic rhinitis can lead to sinus infections, ear problems, poor sleep, and reduced quality of life. It can also worsen asthma and increase the risk of other respiratory issues.

5. What foods should be avoided in allergic rhinitis?
Avoid processed foods, alcohol, and dairy (if it increases mucus for you). Some people with pollen allergies may also react to certain raw fruits and vegetables due to oral allergy syndrome.