Rhinitis is a general term denoting inflammation to the nose. This condition affects  approximately 40 to 50 million people to some degree in the United States . It is an important disease process because it causes or contributes to a number of other disorders including recurrent sinus infections, sinus headaches, sleep apnea,  tiredness and fatigue, and some learning disorders.

There are two major types of rhinitis: allergic and non-allergic. Symptoms are very similar in both disorders and only your allergist may be able to distinguish between the two.

What are the causes of allergic rhinitis (hay fever)?

There are many specific causes including exposure to airborne pollen of trees, grasses, and weeds, mold spores, animal danders, and insect droppings.  

There are many factors, or "Triggers" that may cause a person with allergic rhinitis to have symptoms including weather changes, odors, smoke, dusts, and change in temperature.

What are the main symptoms of allergic rhinitis?

• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Itching to the nose, roof of mouth, ears, and eyes 
• Runny nose

What can be done for this problem?

An allergist can test and confirm your allergies and formulate a treatment plan for each individual.