Allergic Rhinitis is an allergic inflammation of the nasal airways, giving rise to symptoms such as runny nose, blocked nose and sneezing.  These symptoms are very familiar to most of us, and are most commonly due to infections (such as in the common cold, influenza or bacterial rhinosinusitis) or allergies (as in allergic rhinitis discussed in this article).

Allergic rhinitis is also commonly referred to in the West, as "hay fever".  Hay fever, is in fact, a misnomer, because hay is not the usual cause, and there is no fever associated with the condition.  Hence, the preferred, and more accurate term is "allergic rhinitis".

THE SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include nasal congestion, clear runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, as well as tearing of the eyes.  Sometimes, a post-nasal drip can occur and this can lead to coughing, especially at night and on lying down.

Loss of smell occurs commonly and this may be associated with a loss of taste.  With severe nasal symptoms, the superficial blood vessels in the "Little's area" can sometimes burst, resulting in nose bleeding (see article on "epistaxis").

Allergic rhinitis is often associated with other "allergic" conditions, such as asthma, allergic conjunctivitis and eczema.  There is also usually a family history of atopy (allergies).

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