Nasal Allergies Q & A

What are nasal allergies?

Nasal allergies, also called allergic rhinitis, is the inflammation of your nasal passages that’s often accompanied by thick mucus. Nasal allergies can cause congestion, runny nose, and other unpleasant symptoms when left untreated. See Dr. Friedman at Allergy, Asthma, Bronchitis, and Immunology Associates at the first sign of a problem. 

What are the symptoms of nasal allergies?

If you have nasal allergies, you may notice some of the following symptoms:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Sneezing
  • Watery eyes
  • Red eyes
  • Itchy nose, throat, ears, or eyes
  • Ear congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Excessive mucus
  • Headaches
  • Coughing 
  • Sinus pain

Symptoms of nasal allergies could linger all of the time of come and go during certain times of the year. You may also have asthma along with nasal allergies. 

What causes nasal allergies?

Genetic and environmental factors can contribute to developing nasal allergies. You may have allergic reactions to some of the following common allergens:

  • Mold
  • Wind-borne pollen
  • Dust mites
  • Cockroaches
  • Pet dander

You might also develop nasal congestion because of a cold, some medications, or weather changes, as well as smoke, exhaust, chemicals, pollution, and other airborne irritants.
 

How does my provider diagnose nasal allergies?

To find out if you have nasal allergies and develop an effective treatment plan, specialists at Allergy, Asthma, Bronchitis, and Immunology Associates discuss your symptoms and medical history with you. Dr. Friedman examines your nose and breathing and could recommend undergoing nasal or throat swabs, blood tests, skin prick tests, or other types of allergy testing.

What are common treatments for nasal allergies?

Common nasal allergy treatments that Dr. Friedman may recommend include:

Home remedies

Things you can do at home to breathe easier include keeping your home clean, using an air conditioner, reducing pet dander, and keeping your windows closed during high mold and pollen times of the year.

Medications

Taking oral medicines or using medicated nasal sprays can reduce the underlying cause of your congestion and help you breathe easier.

To learn more about nasal allergies or get treated for them, call the Allergy, Asthma, Bronchitis, and Immunology Associates office or schedule an appointment online today.