Allergic rhinitis.

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis affects 15-20% of the population, with symptoms often decreasing in the elderly.
• Pollen, house dust mites, and animals are common triggers for allergic rhinitis.
• Nasal polyposis, while not allergic, shares similarities with allergic rhinitis in pathology and treatment response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of allergic rhinitis and nasal polyposis management.
• To detail the efficacy of various treatments including antihistamines, nasal steroids, and immunotherapy.
• To discuss the role of local denervation in nasal polyposis.

Main Methods:

• Review of personal clinical experience and research in allergic rhinitis and nasal polyposis.
• Discussion of pharmacotherapy, including antihistamines, steroids, vasoconstrictors, and ipratropium.
• Consideration of immunotherapy as an adjunct treatment.

Main Results:

• Antihistamines are effective for sneezing and hypersecretion but not nasal blockage.
• Nasal steroids are superior for persistent symptoms, addressing all nasal complaints.
• Systemic steroids and vasoconstrictors offer short-term relief, especially in nasal polyposis.

Conclusions:

• Treatment choice for allergic rhinitis depends on symptom severity and persistence.
• Nasal steroids are preferred for persistent allergic rhinitis.
• Nasal polyposis management can be guided by principles similar to allergic rhinitis treatment.