Allergic Rhinitis

Question 1

What is allergic rhinitis also known as?

Answer 1

Hay fever

Question 2

What drives allergic rhinitis?

Answer 2

Allergen-driven IgE-mediated hypersensitivity response

Question 3

What does the IgE mediated response result in?

Answer 3

Mucosal inflammation of the nasal passages

Question 4

What are the risk factors for allergic rhinitis?

Answer 4

• Asthma
• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Atopic dermatitis

Question 5

How can symptoms of allergic rhinitis vary?

Answer 5

• Seasonal
• Perennial
• Episodic

Question 6

What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?

Answer 6

• Sneezing
• Rhinorrhoea
• Nasal congestion

Question 7

What are the signs of allergic rhinitis?

Answer 7

• Mouth breathing
• Post-nasal drip
• Cough
• Nose rubbing
• Suborbital venous congestion
• Watery-red eyes

Question 8

What investigations can be useful when considering allergic rhinitis?

Answer 8

• Skin prick test for specific antigens

- Specific serum IgE measurements

Question 9

What are the common triggers for allergic rhinitis?

Answer 9

• Pollen
• Dust mite (excrement)
• Mould spores
• Animal fur (dead skin in the fur)

Question 10

What animals often cause allergic rhinitis?

Answer 10

Cats and dogs

Question 11

What are the differentials for allergic rhinitis?

Answer 11

Common cold

Question 12

What conservative management step can be used to manage allergic rhinitis?

Answer 12

Avoidance of triggers

Question 13

What medications can relieve symptoms?

Answer 13

• Antihistamines
• Montelukast
• Intra-nasal steroids