Key points
- Nose reacts to dust, pollen or pets
- Seasonal or year-round
- Reducing exposure really helps
- Watch for wheezing
What it is
Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the inside of the nose caused by an allergy to something in the air, such as dust, pollen or pet hair. The body reacts to a harmless substance as if it were harmful.
It can be seasonal — worse at certain times of year — or present all year round. It often runs in families with asthma or eczema.
Common signs
- Repeated sneezing, especially in the morning
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy nose, throat, eyes or ears
- Watery, red eyes
- Tiredness and poor sleep from a blocked nose
What can set it off
- House dust and dust mites
- Pollen in spring and after the rains
- Mould in damp rooms
- Pet dander
- Smoke, perfumes and strong smells
- Sudden changes in temperature
Everyday care that helps
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen or dusty days
- Damp-dust and vacuum rather than sweeping dry
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
- Rinse the nose with salt water (saline) if advised
- Shower and change clothes after coming in from dusty work or fields
- Keep pets out of the bedroom
When to see a doctor promptly
- Wheezing or breathlessness appears
- Thick yellow-green discharge with fever or face pain
- Nosebleeds are frequent
- Symptoms disturb sleep or school/work regularly
How we approach it at Gursagar
We ask about your seasons, triggers, home and workplace, sleep and family history, and look at the overall allergic tendency, not just the nose.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually and reviews it through the seasons at follow-ups.
Common questions
Is it the same as a cold?
No. A cold is an infection and passes in about a week; allergy keeps returning with exposure to triggers.
Should I get allergy tests?
Sometimes tests help identify triggers. Your doctor will advise if they are useful.
Can I consult online?
Yes.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.