The inflammatory nature of allergic rhinitis

The importance of the role of mucosal inflammation in the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis is becoming clearer. Only by addressing the underlying inflammation can adequate control of allergic rhinitis be achieved. Appropriate management of allergic rhinitis is necessary to help control the significant morbidity of this disease, which includes reduced school and work productivity due to absences and cognitive impairment as well as diminished quality of life due to rhinitis symptoms. A review of allergic rhinitis is presented emphasizing the concept of nasal mucosal inflammation in regard to management choices.