Another item on the long list of problems that surround human beings since early childhood, allergic rhinitis is at the top of this list. This is due to an immune reaction by the body itself after inhaling allergenic particles, with the nose serving as the entryway for these particles. Considered an inflammation of the nasal mucosa, it can be caused by viral infection or by allergic substances.
The function of the nose is to let air enter the body and to filter the air that reaches our lungs. However, this air comes loaded with various foreign substances. When inhaled by a person who does not suffer from allergies, nothing happens, but the situation is different for allergic children. When these foreign particles make contact with the nostrils of an allergic child, the body’s own defense system reacts and manifests through allergic symptoms.
During an allergic rhinitis episode, children experience intense symptoms such as heavy runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, itching in the eyes and nose. If they also have asthma, it may be accompanied by difficulty breathing. Itching in the throat, roof of the mouth, and watery eyes are also common signs during a rhinitis attack. It’s very frequent for children with allergic rhinitis to also develop sinusitis, which is then called rhinosinusitis.
Various substances found in the environment are allergenic, but the one that stands out most in allergy tests is dust. The main culprit for allergic rhinitis flare-ups is household dust found on the furniture in our homes. Likewise, animal hair, fungi, and dust mites, which also typically settle in mattresses, upholstery, rugs, and curtains, can be responsible. That’s why rhinitis attacks don’t only happen when it’s more humid or dry; they can occur throughout the year. People who are allergic usually also have allergic rhinitis. Children whose parents have rhinitis are more likely to suffer from it too. Poor cleaning habits and the presence of objects that harbor dust mites in the home can further aggravate the problem.
Is There Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis?
The first step in treating allergic rhinitis is identifying what triggers the allergic attacks. During a medical consultation, describing the symptoms and the suspected substance that “provokes” them is fundamental to the evaluation. An allergy test can be ordered to reveal the allergenic substances that trigger rhinitis in the child. This test can be done in two ways: via the skin, which is the most effective method, or by specific blood tests that identify the culprits.
Once the substances causing the allergic rhinitis are identified, several precautions to avoid contact will be suggested and recommended by the doctor. For dust and dust mite allergies, some essential steps include changing sheets weekly, removing rugs and curtains from the bedroom, and keeping the house vacuumed and clean with a damp cloth daily. Even removing stuffed animals from the child’s room can help manage and reduce the symptoms and outbreaks of allergic rhinitis.
Medications to reduce symptoms and help improve breathing will also be prescribed, such as antihistamines (anti-allergy drugs) that quickly relieve itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Nasal decongestants and corticosteroids can also be used for symptom relief and to help improve breathing, but should be used with caution and under medical advice.
Another treatment option is allergy vaccines, which are the last resort if the child does not respond to medication-based treatment. However, this treatment is only given after confirmation of the allergenic substance, where a controlled amount of this substance is introduced into the child’s body by injection or drops so that the body stops reacting and becomes desensitized. Usually, this treatment is so effective that the child can permanently stop using other medications.
See Also: Baby Skin Allergy – What Could It Be?
Photos: Denise Sebastian, SCA Svenska Cellulosa
