Allergic Rhinitis Treatment in St. Louis, Missouri

The term ‘rhinitis’ describes inflammation of the nasal lining that’s caused by an allergic reaction or an infection. This inflammation increases sensitivity to inhalants, which is why symptoms of allergic rhinitis may also occur when you’re exposed to smoke, strong odors, changes in temperature or humidity, and other irritants.

Hay Fever (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis)

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, is triggered by seasonal pollen in the air from ragweed, grass, trees, and other plants during different times of the year. Seasonal symptoms tend to flare up in the spring and the fall when pollen counts are higher, and subside in the winter when pollen is absent.

It’s very common to mistake seasonal allergic rhinitis for the common cold or vise versa. Where the common cold typically lasts about one week, seasonal allergic rhinitis can last as long as the allergen is in the air, usually 2-3 weeks per allergen. It typically re-occurs every year. Another important distinction is that allergies cause itching in the nose and eyes, whereas the common cold typically doesn’t cause itching. If your cold has gone on for too long, it’s possible that you’re dealing with allergic rhinitis.

Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

Perennial allergic rhinitis means that it persists year-round. Pet dander, mold, droppings from dust mites, and cockroach particles are common perennial allergens that can cause allergic rhinitis. Perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms are usually less severe than hay fever symptoms.

Non Allergic Rhinitis

Rhinitis can also occur in the absence of allergies. This is called non allergic rhinitis, and is often caused by an infection. Non allergic rhinitis usually affects adults and causes symptoms year-round with the most common symptoms being runny nose and nasal congestion. Infectious rhinitis can be caused by a common cold or an upper respiratory infection, with nasal symptoms that are similar to allergies.

in St. Louis, Missouri

Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms

• Stuffy nose
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Mucus / phlegm in the throat, sometimes called “postnasal drip”
• Itching in the nose, roof of the mouth, throat, or eyes
• Teary eyes
• Dark circles under the eyes

Dr. Cajigal can help you determine if your symptoms are caused by allergies, and pinpoint what you’re allergic to so you can find relief.

in St. Louis, Missouri

Allergic Rhinitis Testing

Skin Tests for Allergic Rhinitis

Blood Tests for Allergic Rhinitis

in St. Louis, Missouri

Allergic Rhinitis Treatment

There are steps you can take to minimize exposure to allergens, effectively manage allergic reactions if they occur, treat, and prevent certain allergic reactions altogether.

Allergy-Proof Your Home

• Keep windows closed during high pollen and mold seasons
• Steam clean carpets or remove carpets altogether
• Avoid air drying laundry outside
• Keep pets out of the bedroom to reduce pet dander in your bedding
• Vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust in your home
• Wash your bed linens and pillowcases in hot water and detergent frequently to reduce allergens
• Use dust mite proof covers for pillows, comforters, duvets, mattresses and box springs
• Men should shave frequently to prevent pollen from gathering in their facial hair

Be Mindful of Allergen Exposure Outside

If you have hay fever, you should be especially mindful of allergen exposure when you leave the house during allergy season. Follow these steps to limit exposure:

• Check your local pollen counts whenever you check the weather
• Limit outdoor activities during times of high pollen counts
• Wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to reduce pollen exposure when outdoors
• Change clothes as soon as you get home if you’ve spent a lot of time outdoors

When you visit us at St. Louis Family Allergy, Dr. Cajigal will have additional recommendations for you based on your unique case.

Allergic Rhinitis Medications

• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Nasal corticosteroids (nasal spray)
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists
• Cromolyn sodium

Be sure to discuss any medications with your allergist prior to using them. Medications to relieve seasonal allergic rhinitis are most effective if you start taking them before pollen is in the air, prior to allergy symptoms developing.

Allergy Shots for Allergic Rhinitis

Allergy shots are also an option if you’re looking for long-term, ongoing allergic rhinitis symptom relief.

We hope you’ve found this information helpful. Get in touch with us at St. Louis Family Allergy to learn more about allergic rhinitis treatment and how to effectively manage it! We’re looking forward to your visit.

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