The main symptoms of nasal allergy [allergic rhinitis] are blockage or stuffiness, clear or discoloured running of the nose and sneezing and itching.  These complaints are due to irritation and inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes.  It is thought that the main factors causing the allergy are airborne particles sniffed into the nose [aeroallergens].  They may be associated with itchy, watery eyes and an itchy mouth or throat.  Some patients may also be wheezy with asthma.

Nasal allergy may last throughout the year or be seasonal.  In some instances, the allergy may be due to allergens present in the air of the work place.  This is occupational allergic rhinitis.  The most common example of seasonal allergic rhinitis is hayfever when the allergy is due to grass pollen  Allergy to tree pollen typically occurs from February to May, grass pollen from June to July and weeds and moulds from August to September. 

The main culprit for year-round nasal allergy is the house dust mite.  Pets may also be responsible.  If this is the case, contact with the animal should produce or aggravate typical symptoms.

A family history of nasal problems, asthma or eczema is often found in patients suspected of suffering with nasal allergy.

Skin prick testing to common inhaled allergens or blood tests are used in the clinic to check for allergy to the main culprits of nasal allergy such as trees, grass pollens, moulds and weeds, house dust mite and cat and dog dander.

Once nasal allergy is confirmed, we strongly recommend taking measures to limit exposure to the relevant aeroallergens.  For mild and intermittent symptoms antihistamines may be taken either as tablets or as a nasal spray.  Persistent and more marked symptoms are treated with nasal steroid sprays.  These are safe and may be used in the long term.  Severe symptoms may require a short course of steroid tablets as well.

If the nose still remains blocked, surgery may be used to reduce the thickness of the nasal lining, straighten any twists contributing to blockage inside the nose [septoplasty] or relieve any associated sinusitis [functional endoscopic sinus surgery].