Tablets for allergic rhinitis: the most effective drugs for treating a runny nose - 23 best

Allergic rhinitis is a common chronic disease that affects more than 30% of the world's population. An effective treatment for this disease has not yet been developed; only symptomatic and supportive therapy is used, aimed at reducing the severity of symptoms and stopping an allergy attack.

Taking antihistamines is an important part of treatment; these drugs directly affect the receptors that respond to the allergen. They help avoid relapse and reduce the intensity and severity of clinical manifestations of hay fever. They are available in forms for local and internal use, but tablets are the most widely used, since they are the most effective and begin to act almost instantly.

Causes of allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis can be caused by various flowering plants - grasses, trees, shrubs.
In the case of allergic rhinitis, or as it is also called hay fever, the cause is an inadequate response of the human immune system to particles of an external substance (allergen) entering the body. Hypersensitivity (increased sensitivity of the body to a substance) can occur to the same substances that do not cause any reaction in other people.

The following may act as irritants:

• plant pollen;
• fur and skin particles of some animals (cats, dogs, etc.);
• mold spores;
• waste products of microscopic mites contained in house dust (often causing allergy symptoms).

There is also an increased reaction of the mucous membranes to food allergens, in which case an allergic runny nose may also appear, among other painful manifestations.

Factors that provoke the occurrence of allergic rhinitis

The susceptibility to allergic rhinitis or hay fever increases if a person has chronic inflammatory diseases in the ear, nose and throat area. Those who are prone to lingering colds and frequent viral infections are also at increased risk. Environmental factors:

• severe air pollution;
• tobacco smoke;
• an abundance of dust in the premises;
• constant presence of animals.

The likelihood of allergic rhinitis increases if there is a hereditary predisposition (one or both parents are prone to allergic reactions).

Groups of drugs used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis

Group	A drug
General antihistamines	Chloropyramine, Clemastine, Cetirizine, Loratadine, Desloratadine, Fexofenadine
Local antihistamines in the form of sprays and drops	Azelastine, Dimetindene
Local (intranasal) glucocorticosteroids	Beclomethasone, Fluticasone, Mometasone
Systemic steroid therapy	Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Methylprednisolone
Vasoconstrictor nasal sprays based on	Oxymetazoline, Xylometazoline, Tetrizoline, Naphazoline
M-cholinergic receptor blockers	Ipratropium bromide
Mast cell membrane stabilizers	Sodium cromoglycate and its derivatives
Barrier agents that prevent allergens from settling on the nasal mucosa	Nazaval
Homeopathic medicines	Rhinital
Saline solutions based on sea water for rinsing the nose	Aquamaris, Aqualor, Physiomer, etc.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis

The appearance of allergic rhinitis is characterized by certain symptoms. Some of them may appear almost immediately, within 4 to 8 hours, while others may appear 2 days or even weeks after the onset of the disease.

According to allergists, at the first meeting of a person with an irritating substance, a noticeable allergic reaction may not occur, but during subsequent contacts with the allergen it will become more pronounced.

In most cases, the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are as follows:

• repeated sneezing. Usually it occurs immediately when the allergen gets into the nasal mucosa;
• itching in the nose, sore throat. These manifestations are also very pronounced, and precisely at the very beginning of the disease;
• increased secretion of mucus from the nose. At the beginning it is a very thin, watery discharge. Subsequently, mucous secretions become thicker;
• tearing, itching and redness of the eyes;
• congestion of the nasal passages, inability to breathe through the nose, deterioration of the sense of smell;
• increased sensitivity to strong odors: household and construction chemicals, perfumes, tobacco smoke;
• dry cough that comes later;
• weakness, drowsiness, chills and extreme fatigue (phenomena characteristic of later stages of the disease). This is how the body’s general allergic reaction manifests itself;
• Ear congestion and hearing loss are also characteristic of chronic stage allergic rhinitis.

Causes

The disease occurs due to sensitivity of the mucous membrane to a number of substances. For patients with allergies, the list of allergens is different: it can be food, dust, flowers, etc. Hypersensitivity develops rapidly - symptoms make themselves felt very quickly. Typically, an attack of allergic rhinitis begins after 20 minutes of being near the allergen.

Rhinitis is rightfully one of the “big three” pathologies of an allergic nature, because it accounts for the majority of visits to the doctor.

Attention! Often, patients with rhinitis purchase drugs to narrow the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. It has been proven that blood vessels get used to a certain dose of the drug, and the dosage has to be increased. Abuse worsens the patient's condition, especially after abandoning these drugs. Moreover, many allergy sufferers have increased sensitivity to chemical compounds. Therefore, you cannot choose medications on your own.

Predisposing factors and causes of development

People predisposed to allergies are at risk. This can be traced through family medical history: if relatives often suffered from urticaria, asthma, neurodermatitis and a number of other atopic ailments, then the risk of allergies is high.

The change of seasons is the main cause of allergic rhinitis. Spring and summer are busy times for clinics, as many people come to them with hypersensitivity to grass and tree pollen. At the same time, an allergy to poplar fluff is extremely rare - patients often confuse a reaction to the fluff with irritation due to pollen. The fact is that the flowering period of most plants coincides with the dominance of fluff in the city air.

Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis

At the very beginning, to establish a diagnosis, the doctor conducts a detailed interview with the patient. This is how an anamnesis is collected about the course of the disease and all the factors accompanying its development, individual characteristics of the reaction to various substances, as well as treatment methods previously undertaken at home.

The hereditary factor, which is very important when diagnosing any allergic diseases, is also being studied.

In the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis, it is of great importance to identify precisely those irritating substances that trigger a negative immune reaction. In this way, a possible range of cross-allergens (similar products and substances that can also negatively affect a person) is established. Treatment for allergic rhinitis begins only after an accurate diagnosis has been established.

With the help of a so-called allergy test, the suspicion of any allergy is quickly confirmed.

Proven diagnostic methods, the most popular at the moment:

• Test based on skin tests (allergy tests). This simple method is often used, but its error is quite large. The point is that using a special tool, a small scratch is made on a person’s skin into which a substance – an allergen – is introduced. After 15 minutes you can evaluate the result. If the reaction is positive, the test site will turn red and there will be slight swelling and itching.
• Immunoblotting . This is an analysis of the reaction of human blood antibodies to molecules of an irritating substance. Conducted in laboratory conditions. A fairly accurate diagnostic method.
• Microscopic examination of smears . For this analysis, smears of mucous secretions taken from a patient during an exacerbation of allergic rhinitis are stained with special preparations and examined under a microscope.
• Test for allergen-specific immunoglobulins (IgE) . Blood testing for an increase in the level of immunoglobulins E when exposed to various suspected allergen substances.
• Method of provocative analysis (rarely used). The patient is given a small amount of a substance that could potentially cause an allergic reaction. If the result is negative, the dose is gradually increased. This study is used only in inpatient settings.

Diagnostics

Treatment of allergic rhinitis will be effective with proper diagnosis. The diagnosis should be based on the clinical picture after examination and questioning of the patient and the results of laboratory tests.

The first step is to collect an anamnesis. The doctor clarifies the presence of a genetic predisposition to allergies and collects information about the disease. This includes the duration of symptoms, frequency, severity, and severity. The doctor examines the nose and nasopharynx and performs rhinoscopy. In patients suffering from allergic rhinitis, the nasal mucosa has a grayish-pale tint. There is severe swelling that makes it difficult to breathe. The mucus is watery and transparent, but the addition of a concomitant infection can change its color. In the chronic or severe acute stage of the disease, a fold appears on the bridge of the nose, which appears if the tip of the nose is frequently rubbed. Nasal obstruction leads to the appearance of an “allergic face” - dark bags under the eyes, altered taste, flattened molar teeth and an arched palate.

Complications

If the disease is not treated, allergic rhinitis usually goes through a stage of change, over time, the allergy moves from the nose and eyes to the lower respiratory tract, resulting in allergic bronchial asthma. As a result, allergic pollen will cause shortness of breath.

In addition, many other complications can occur with hay fever, such as:

• asthma;
• itching of the mucous membrane of the mouth, throat, ear;
• angina;
• cough;
• allergic skin reactions (eg, redness, swelling);
• problems with concentration;
• sleep disorders;
• impairment of smell, taste and hearing;
• general apathetic state.

The main complication of this disease is asthma (attacks of asthma) . People with pollen allergies have a significantly higher risk of developing asthma than people without allergies: in 80% of cases, asthma is preceded by an allergy . However, early treatment of allergic rhinitis reduces the risk of developing asthma.

Where does allergic rhinitis come from and how does it manifest itself?

Let's start with a definition. The name of the disease contains two words: rhinitis, which means inflammation of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, and more specifically, the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses, and allergic, which implies the presence of an allergen.

The causative agents of allergic rhinitis in adults can be the most seemingly ordinary substances: house dust, mite feces, animal dander, washing powders, medications, fish food, yeast cells, pollen of numerous plants such as alder, birch, oak, cereals, weeds...

This list can be continued endlessly. The main thing is that the size of the allergen allows it to pass through the natural barrier of the mucous membrane and enter the bloodstream and lymph. Now allergists distinguish two types of allergic rhinitis: seasonal and year-round.

Seasonal rhinitis (apparently, this is what the reader suffers from) appears during the flowering of disease-causing plants and, as a rule, disappears with the first snow. Year-round allergic rhinitis is associated with allergens that live next to us regardless of the time of year, that is, all year round.

How to treat allergic rhinitis in adults?

To cure allergic rhinitis, it is first necessary to establish and confirm an accurate diagnosis, as well as identify a list of obvious and potential irritating substances - allergens. Subsequently, treatment is carried out aimed at solving three problems:

• relieving allergic inflammation and swelling of the nasal mucosa;
• elimination of the reaction to the influence of allergens (allergen-specific therapy);
• organizing a hypoallergenic lifestyle, minimizing contact with irritants.

Nutrition and lifestyle

If the question of treating allergic rhinitis has already arisen, the first thing you will have to do is change your usual lifestyle. Of great importance for any allergic diseases is the issue of reducing contact with irritants:

• if signs of a negative reaction to food are detected, it is necessary to strictly follow the diet and completely exclude those foods to which an allergy has been identified;
• If a reaction to plant pollen occurs, it is recommended to avoid any contact with the allergen during its flowering season (walks in nature, trips out of town). During an exacerbation, when coming home from the street, you need to immediately change clothes, take a shower, and rinse your nose with an isotonic solution. This is done in order to reduce the duration of contact with pollen that could be brought into the house on a person’s clothes, body and hair;
• If an allergic reaction to house dust is established, it is necessary to regularly carry out wet cleaning of the room . It is also recommended to organize a hypoallergenic life: no carpets, heavy fabric curtains and down pillows, removal of all kinds of dust collectors. It is necessary to use special covers for upholstered furniture and beds, acaricidal (anti-mite) cleaning agents;
• Using household air purifiers is useful both for pollen allergies and in case of a reaction to house dust.

What other complications does this disease pose?

The most serious complication of allergic rhinitis in adult patients is the formation of bronchial asthma, which manifests itself with coughing, wheezing, and attacks of suffocation. Usually, when allergic inflammation spreads to the bronchial mucosa, the symptoms of allergic rhinitis fade into the background, and sometimes disappear altogether.

This is the insidiousness of allergic rhinitis. That is, starting with a seemingly harmless sneezing, the disease often develops into a more formidable disease - bronchial asthma.

Another serious complication of allergic rhinitis can be polypous growths of the nasal mucosa, which often completely block the passage. In this case, nasal breathing becomes impossible. As a rule, nasal polyps are removed surgically, but after a while they grow back...

Since the culprit of the disease is not always known, the treatment process will probably take place under the slogan “Find and neutralize.” More precisely: “Find and separate.”

Prevention and recommendations

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are very unpleasant, and it can be quite difficult to completely cure this disease. Doctors recommend that people at risk adhere to the following rules to prevent allergies:

• use filters and indoor air purifiers;
• regularly carry out wet cleaning, get rid of house dust accumulations (carpets, large soft toys, down and feather pillows);
• avoid prolonged exposure to an aggressive air environment (tobacco smoke, strong chemical odors, dust and soot);
• during the flowering season of allergenic plants, stay indoors as much as possible or go to a different climate zone;
• follow the principles of proper nutrition and a hypoallergenic diet;
• If you have the slightest tendency to allergies, you should refuse to keep any animals in the house.

The topic of preventing diseases such as allergic rhinitis during pregnancy is becoming especially relevant. After all, there is a risk of developing the disease not only for the mother, but also for the unborn child. The use of drugs such as Prevalin or Nazaval is a safe way to prevent the development of the disease.

Principles of treatment and diet therapy

To eliminate the symptoms of the disease, you must first stop all contact with the allergen. It’s good if a person already knows what could lead to the appearance of an allergic rhinitis. Then you can purposefully minimize the effect of the allergen on the body. If it was not possible to accurately determine the allergen, it is necessary to eliminate contact with the most likely allergens. To do this you need:

• hide soft toys, carpeted floors and wall coverings - it is quite possible that an allergy has manifested itself to dust or to the material from which the toys and carpets are made;
• remove plants from rooms - very often it is the particles released by plants that provoke allergic rhinitis in adults and children;
• replace heavy curtains or upholstered furniture coverings, vacuum sofas and armchairs, remove dust from the surface of tables, chests of drawers, bookshelves. Dust accumulates in these places, which causes allergies;
• change the bed linen - the smallest household inhabitants can accumulate here - bed bugs, which also provoke allergic manifestations;
• pay attention to pillows with natural feathers, especially if allergies appear after sleep - feathers can cause irritation in the body;
• do not use aggressive cosmetics; if possible, change any of the products to another to identify the allergen.

If there is a person in the house who suffers from allergies, daily wet cleaning is necessary, and the premises must be ventilated. These precautions will help significantly reduce allergic attacks and improve the patient's health.

In some cases, people become allergic to food. In this situation, it is necessary to exclude the allergen product and dishes with it from the menu. The most common causes of allergies are citrus fruits, honey, tomatoes, nuts, seafood, eggs, milk, and chocolate.

Forecast

The long-term prognosis for allergic rhinitis is good, as in many cases, hay fever is successfully managed by minimizing exposure to allergens and treatment with one or more medications.

However, when people with allergic rhinitis have other co-existing conditions, such as asthma, the disease is much more serious and has been reported to be fatal in rare cases.

Although the condition is not considered serious (unless asthma is present), it causes a lot of discomfort and interferes with the patient's normal daily life.

Anti-inflammatory agents for the nose

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Drops and sprays are used as a local preparation for treating the nasal mucosa. A fairly effective remedy is the drug Flixonase. The drug contains the active ingredient fluticasone propionate. The medicine is available in the form of a spray. The main effect of the drug is anti-inflammatory. The drug helps relieve patients from the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, swelling of the nasal mucosa.

Fluticasone propionate prevents excessive drying and the development of an inflammatory reaction. The drug is practically not absorbed into the blood; all its action occurs on the surface of the mucosa. The drug can be used as a prolonged therapy in both children and adults. Children over 4 years old should not take the product for longer than two months, and children over twelve years old should not take it for more than six months.

Allergic rhinitis can be treated with Avamis. The product is produced in the form of a nasal spray. Avamys contains a corticosteroid; in addition, the drug contains the substance fluticasone furoate. It has a clear anti-inflammatory effect. The drug is used for the systematic treatment of patients suffering from allergic rhinitis.

The drug is used regularly; patients should not miss a dose, so as not to reduce the dosage of the drug. Typically, the effect of the drug can be felt within eight hours after the first injection, and the maximum effect is expected on the third day of using the drug. One dosage is equal to one injection. Before the procedure, the nose must be cleaned. The duration of treatment with Avamis is determined by the attending physician depending on the severity of the pathology. The drug is approved for use in adults and children over six years of age.

Nasonex spray will be an excellent preventative for those who suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis.

An excellent remedy is Nasonex. It belongs to a group of topical decongestants containing corticosteroids. The drug is indicated for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. The product can be used in children from the age of two. For seasonal rhinitis, before the flowering of ragweed and other herbs, it is recommended to start using the drug a month before the expected onset of the allergen. This will prevent the development of severe allergic attacks.

The medicine has minimal contraindications, so after consultation with a doctor it is recommended to use it even in pregnant women. The typical dosage of the drug is one press into one nostril. In this case, approximately 100 mg of a medicinal substance containing 50 mcg of mometasone, the active component of Nasonex, is applied to the nasal mucosa.

Before each use, the bottle must be shaken, since the active component tends to settle at the very bottom of the bottle. For the treatment of allergic rhinitis, it is recommended to inject 2 times into each nostril, and as a preventive measure - once. If the effect of the drug weakens, you can increase the number of injections up to four times a day.

An excellent drug with an immunomodulatory effect is Sinupret. It is based on plant components and has a complex effect on the body. Thanks to the drug, you can achieve a significant anti-inflammatory effect, remove swelling and nasal congestion, improve drainage and ventilation of the nasal sinuses. And if you use Sinupret together with antibacterial agents, it will help enhance their effect. Allergy sufferers should not forget about this, whose allergic rhinitis often ends with a cold, bacterial infection and green nasal discharge.

Treatment

Treatment of allergic rhinitis depends on its severity, clinical presentation and age of the patient. In most cases, the disease cannot be completely cured, so all prescribed medications are used to alleviate all symptoms and to prevent possible complications.

Medications are prescribed.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines in tablets are most often prescribed during an exacerbation of year-round rhinitis, and in case of seasonal runny nose, it is more effective to take them in advance, which reduces the severity of the disease or does not allow symptoms to develop at all.

For long-term use, new generation allergy medications are chosen that do not cause serious adverse reactions or addiction.

They prescribe Cetrin, Zodak, Parlazin, Erius, for children over 12 years old Telfast, Ezlor and its analogues Nalorius, Blogir 3, special drops for allergies.

The full list of drugs is presented here.

Features of treatment with antihistamines for children

Allergic rhinitis in children is predisposed by exudative diathesis, frequent colds, uncontrolled use of antibiotics, and predisposition. Seasonal manifestations of the disease are first detected in most cases in children over four years of age.

With an earlier development of the disease, hidden symptoms occur, that is, there is a slight itching of the nose and eyes.

The intensity of all manifestations depends on the concentration of pollen in the air and on weather conditions, that is, in windy weather the symptoms intensify, and in rain they decrease.

Year-round rhinitis in children is manifested by congestion of the nasal passages and paroxysmal sneezing.

This is especially true in the morning hours. With a long course of the disease, children develop bruises under the eyes, some puffiness of the face, periodically dry lips and conjunctivitis may occur.

In severe forms of the disease, both mental activity and the overall development of the child suffer.

Treatment of this disease in children must begin with creating a favorable environment. That is, it is necessary to remove animals or fish from the house if an allergy to them is detected.

Constant wet cleaning and removal of mold areas is required. During the warm season, it is necessary to reduce exposure to pollen, which is achieved by using masks and filtered air conditioners in the house.

Sometimes the only option to completely eliminate severe seasonal runny nose is to move to another climate zone where allergenic plants do not grow.

ATTENTION: Only a doctor can select medication for a sick child.

It is necessary to find the most effective remedy that will not have a negative effect on the baby’s body, will not cause addiction and will help to quickly and effectively cope with all the symptoms of the disease.

Not all antihistamines can be prescribed to children, so what is prescribed for adults is not suitable for younger children.

To facilitate the treatment of rhinitis in children, antihypertensives are prescribed in the form of drops and syrups. Three generations of drugs are used at once, but each group is prescribed strictly in certain situations:

• First-generation antihistamines can cause a number of adverse reactions, but they act quickly and are completely eliminated from the body. Therefore, medications such as Suprastin and Diazolin can be prescribed in a short course, usually three days, to relieve acute manifestations of allergies.
• Second generation antihistamines (Claritin, Cetrin) do not cause any changes in the nervous system, but with prolonged use they can negatively affect the functioning of the heart and liver.
• Third generation antihistamines cause virtually no side effects, do not accumulate in the body, and are therefore suitable for the treatment of chronic allergic rhinitis. This group of drugs includes Erius, Telfast, Zyrtec.

Nasal antihistamines

When treating a runny nose of an allergic nature, Allergodil with the active substance azelastine hydrochloride is often prescribed. An analogue of the drug based on the active substance is Azelastine.

Thanks to this substance, the mechanism of allergy development is inhibited and the membranes are stabilized. This reduces the permeability of the mucous layer and blocks the production of inflammatory mediators.

Under the influence of Allergodil, itching of the nasal passages, sneezing, and mucus production decrease. The therapeutic effect appears within 15 minutes after injection of the spray.

Allergodil is approved for long-term use. For year-round allergic rhinitis, it can be used without interruption for up to 6 months. But it must be taken into account that the components of the medicine depress the nervous system and therefore it is recommended to refuse to drive vehicles and other complex devices for the duration of treatment.

Do not use Allergodil during pregnancy and when it is necessary to breastfeed the baby.

Steroid aerosols

Sprays containing glucocorticosteroids have anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and immunosuppressive effects on the nasal mucosa.

The advantages of these drugs include:

1. Possibility of long-term use for year-round allergic rhinitis. When used topically, hormones do not penetrate into the general bloodstream and therefore do not cause side effects.
2. Influence on all stages of pathology development. Due to this property, aerosols with corticosteroids are used not only to treat rhinitis, but also to prevent its development.
3. The absence of sedation, which allows patients to lead their usual lifestyle.
4. Instant development of anti-inflammatory effect upon injection. At the same time, the antiallergic properties of drugs in this group begin to appear after 2-4 hours.
5. Rarity of use. The aerosol is used once a day.

The group of nasal sprays with glucocorticosteroids includes Nasonex, Aldecin, Avamis, Flixonase.

Combined products

To treat allergic rhinitis, products containing vasoconstrictor and antihistamine components are also used.

The most popular drug in this group is Vibrocil, it is available in the form of drops and spray. The aerosol should only be used after 6 years.

Under the influence of Vibrocil, a runny nose quickly disappears, and at the same time the blood vessels are toned. Use it for no more than 7 days, since long-term instillation can cause addiction and medicinal rhinitis - read how to restore the nasal mucosa.

Sprays and drops based on isotonic solutions

Such drugs are used only as means intended to cleanse the nasal cavity. Their use for allergic rhinitis helps remove most of the allergens from the walls of the nose and this reduces the manifestations of the disease.

AquaMaris, Salin, Aqualor are safe for health and therefore they are approved for use from birth.

But children under two years of age are recommended to use only drops.

Recently, drugs based on natural ingredients – Nazaval and Prevalin – have been widely used as preventive agents.

They are sprayed into the nasal passage, after which a thin film is formed on the walls, which does not interfere with breathing, but prevents the penetration of allergens. Aqua Maris Sens works on the same principle. It is necessary to use aerosols after thoroughly rinsing the nasal passages.

You can learn more about what nasal drops are prescribed for allergic rhinitis here.

Vasoconstrictor drops

Necessary for severe swelling and congestion of the nasal passages. Their use makes breathing easier and significantly reduces the volume of mucus secretions.

Naphthyzin, Nazol, Tizin, Ximetozolin, Otrivin, Nazo-spray, Nok-spray, Ximelin Extra are prescribed.

The use of vasoconstrictor drops must be approached with extreme caution - increasing the dosage and days of use leads to rapid addiction.

According to patient reviews, as an alternative to vasoconstrictor drops, which are not recommended for use for more than 5-7 days, Fleming's ointment was used for rhinitis, which was applied in a thin layer to the nasal mucosa.

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Mast cell membrane stabilizers (sodium cromoglycate derivatives)

Allows you to relieve inflammation in the nasal cavity. Sprays that have a local effect are often used.

These include cromones - Kromohexal, Kromosol, Kromoglin.

These drugs also prevent the body from developing an immediate reaction to the allergen and are therefore often used as a prophylactic agent.

The maximum effect from the use of drugs in this group occurs on the 5-7th day of use, therefore such drugs are prescribed for seasonal runny nose a few days before the expected bloom of the identified allergen.

• CROMOHEXAL. Available in spray and solution form. To treat allergic rhinitis, a spray is prescribed; initially, its dosage is one injection into each nostril 4 times a day. After a week, they switch to a maintenance dose - 2 injections per day, and the general course lasts a month.
• CROMOSOL. To treat a runny nose, it is used in the form of drops and aerosols. The general course of treatment is 4 weeks, the drug should be discontinued gradually over 7-10 days.

Hormonal drugs

Allergic rhinitis is treated with hormonal drugs only if there is no effect from antihistamines and anti-inflammatory therapy.

Medicines with hormones are not used for a long time, and only a doctor should select them for his patient.

Enterosorbents

The disease also affects the accumulation of toxins in the body, which leads to an even greater increase in symptoms. Enterosorbents – Enterosgel, Filtrum, Polysorb – can help rid the body of toxins.

Typically, these drugs are prescribed for several days, 3-4 weeks before the plants begin to flower, and in case of year-round rhinitis, during the period of exacerbation of the pathology.

Hyposensitization

When diagnosing a pathology, hyposensitization is used only if the type of allergen negatively affecting the body is precisely known. The technique consists of introducing minimal doses of the allergen into the body of a sick person. This method also has an alternative name - ASIT therapy.

Under the influence of this substance, the body gradually gets used to its effects, due to which the symptoms of the disease decrease and in some cases disappear completely.

The introduction of the allergen is carried out under the supervision of a doctor, and the full course may take several years.

It is also necessary to increase immunity and treat chronic diseases, especially those associated with the gastrointestinal tract.

For year-round rhinitis, medications are selected that can be used for a long time, that is, for several months.

For seasonal runny nose, treatment that is carried out several weeks before the expected exacerbation of the disease is especially effective.

Symptoms

Important signs of allergic rhinitis are that there is no temperature or it is below 37.5 degrees, and nasal discharge is clear and liquid. In adults, symptoms are less severe than in children.

The general condition of the patient depends on the severity of the pathology: with a mild one, the person leads a normal life, the only thing bothering him is a runny nose.

In moderate cases, other symptoms appear:

• nasal congestion;
• sniffling;
• itching and burning of the mucous membrane;
• nasal voice;
• decreased sense of smell;
• bouts of sneezing.

With prolonged allergic rhinitis without treatment, additional signs of pathology arise:

• Frequent nosebleeds.
• Sore throat, sore throat, slight cough - mucus flows down the back wall.
• Irritation of the skin near the wings of the nose, in which it turns red and swells.
• Ear pain, hearing loss.

If the course of allergic rhinitis in adults is severe, symptoms of general malaise appear:

• headache;
• irritability;
• poor sleep;
• decreased performance, concentration;
• lethargy.

Folk remedies

To know how to cure allergic rhinitis with minimal harm to the body, you should pay attention to therapy with folk remedies. There are several effective recipes that, without harm to health, will help boost local immunity and cope with the manifestations of allergic rhinitis in both adults and children. And in children, the use of folk remedies is preferable so as not to dry out the nasal mucosa with drugs from the pharmaceutical industry.

With the help of juice you can significantly boost your immunity and eliminate severe allergic attacks of rhinitis

To successfully treat allergic rhinitis with folk remedies, you can use the following recipes:

• To prepare the product you will need four tablespoons of St. John's wort, one tablespoon of corn silk, five tablespoons of centaury root and three dandelions, as well as four tablespoons of crushed rose hips. All ingredients must be combined together and pour 1.5 cups of boiling water. The product must be infused in a thermos, tightly sealed with a lid, for ten hours. Then the liquid must be boiled and left for another five hours, after which it can already be used. After straining the cake, it is useful for patients to drink half a glass of liquid three times a day before meals;
• Celery juice has excellent general strengthening properties. To treat, you need to grate celery root and then squeeze out the juice through cheesecloth. Drink the resulting liquid one teaspoon three times a day before meals. After using celery juice, many patients note that attacks of allergic rhinitis began to occur less frequently and were much weaker;
• To eliminate the disease, you can use peppermint. This active component will help get rid of allergic manifestations, including rhinitis. For treatment, you need to pour 20 grams of dry mint into a glass of hot milk and infuse the product for about half an hour. Then it is drunk three to four times during the day.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis is a long process that requires a lot of patience. The mechanisms of allergy occurrence are extremely complex, and local remedies alone cannot influence the occurrence of nasal symptoms. Patients need to use complex therapy, a regimen drawn up by a doctor, which will include drugs of various spectrums of action.

Hormonal drugs

Nasal glucocorticosteroids (GCS) are preferred for persistent severe allergic rhinitis. These drugs inhibit the development of the early and late stages of the immune response, reduce the level of eosinophils, mast and T cells in the mucosa. Regular use reduces itching and mucus secretion in the nose and bronchi (therefore they are prescribed as inhalations for bronchial asthma). Modern intranasal drugs do not have a systemic effect and do not affect the functioning of the adrenal cortex.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis is carried out with fluticasone (Nazarel), mometasone (Nasonex, Flix), budesonide (Tafen Nasal). However, even the minimum level of the active component of the drug in the blood is dangerous for the unborn baby, so these drugs are not recommended during pregnancy. They are also not prescribed to children under 6 years of age. The exception is Nasonex (available from the age of two).

The dosage is 1 - 2 sprays once a day, the instructions for the spray contain a photo with a detailed description of opening the bottle and attaching the dispenser. Tests are not performed to monitor the level of adrenal hormones. However, if the patient uses steroid ointments or takes them in tablet form, dose adjustment is necessary. Typically, GCS is prescribed in parallel with antihistamines for allergic rhinitis, but this combination can be replaced with one medication - Momat Rhino Advance. It contains the GCS mometasone and the H1 receptor blocker azelastine.

H1 receptor blockers or antihistamines

These medications are the first choice for allergic rhinitis. They are used to relieve symptoms of acute and persistent forms of the disease. Currently, more than 150 antihistamines are known. They selectively block histamine receptors and inhibit the release of this mediator from mast cells. Medicines in this group can be divided into three types:

• first generation (Pipolfen, Diazolin, Suprastin), these drugs are practically not prescribed, which is associated with a large number of side effects, their use causes drowsiness, dry mucous membranes, and addiction;
• second generation (Trexil, Zyrtec, Fenistil, Claritin, Cetirizine). They are effective not only for the treatment of a runny nose, they are also prescribed to eliminate the symptoms of bronchial asthma. Sedation and other unwanted complications practically do not occur;
• the third generation is the most modern and safe means; they are mainly used to treat allergic rhinitis in adults.

The last group of antihistamines includes levocetirizine (Suprastinex, Xyzal), fexofenadine (Telfast, Fexadine). If you take the medicine in a therapeutic dose (you need to take 1 tablet per day), there is no drowsiness after it. Levocetylisine and fexofenadine affect only the mechanisms of development of the allergic reaction, without affecting other physiological processes (in particular the functioning of the heart and liver). These drugs are compatible with alcohol (in reasonable quantities) and other drugs.

On average, the course of treatment for allergic rhinitis lasts 1–4 weeks. For mild forms of the disease, nasal H1 blockers (Allergodil) can be used. They are well tolerated, the action begins after 15 minutes. However, such drugs are not suitable for long-term therapy.

How to use it correctly

When choosing a drug, you need to focus on contraindications for use and the pharmacological effects it produces.

Before instilling solutions with vasoconstrictor or antiallergic effects into the nose, it is recommended to rinse the nose with saline solution or sea water. It will remove secretions and allergens, prepare the nasal mucosa for the application of medications and increase their bioavailability.

The frequency of use depends on the duration of action of the drops.

The average frequency of use is 2-4 times a day.

When instilling, the head is tilted back. This position is maintained for several minutes after the manipulation.

Note! There is no need to tilt your head back when spraying the spray.

After use, the pipette or bottle tip must be wiped with a damp cloth or rinsed under water, then wiped dry and closed tightly.

Additionally, the use of antiallergic tablets and syrups internally is indicated - this will increase the effectiveness of therapy.

To avoid addiction, short courses of vasoconstrictors are recommended - no more than 3-5 days.

The maximum period of treatment with sea water preparations is unlimited.

Hormonal drops and drugs with an antiallergic effect are used in courses.

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Mechanism of development (pathogenesis) of the disease

The mucous membrane of the nasal cavity is covered with a layer of multirow ciliated epithelium. It forms a barrier that is constantly “attacked” by various foreign agents. The occurrence of the inflammatory process is determined by the state and functioning of local immune factors. Allergies are caused by small (from 10 to 100 microns) irritant particles that settle on the mucous membrane.

Due to their size, they do not linger on the hairs located in the vestibule of the nostrils, but settle on the ciliated epithelium. This tissue can recognize allergens thanks to IgE, which is found on the surface of mast cells located in the submucosal layer of the inner lining of the nasal cavity. Allergen molecules bind to IgE and cause an inflammatory response. Its symptoms (primarily a runny nose) appear just 30 to 60 seconds after inhaling the irritant.

Helping ourselves with vasomotor allergic rhinitis Sometimes there are practically no external symptoms. However, as a result of complex immunological reactions, the inflammatory process persists all the time. An examination by a specialized specialist is necessary if the listed symptoms continue for at least one hour a day for a long time. In addition to the “classic” symptoms, allergic rhinitis manifests itself as follows:

• attacks of sneezing, turning into coughing, are accompanied by itching (and sometimes burning) in the nasopharynx and throat;
• swelling and swelling of the mucous membrane leads to the fact that the nose is completely stuffy, the sense of smell worsens, and as a result, the perception of the taste of food;
• discharge can be either watery (with an exudative form of the disease) or thick (with an obstructive form);
• itchy skin in the nose and eyes;
• dark circles under the eyes;
• conjunctivitis (its occurrence is characteristic of exudative allergic rhinitis), which is accompanied by redness of the conjunctiva, lacrimation, pain in the eyes when looking at the light.

With chronic runny nose, patients complain of frequent headaches, constant weakness and fatigue, and sleep disturbances. As a rule, allergic inflammation is not limited to the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity and will spread further. Almost all people with this disease suffer from its complications: chronic pharyngitis, sinusitis (inflammation of the paranasal sinuses), otitis media, and the formation of polyps. Sinusitis from allergic rhinitis is a common occurrence that can occur due to persistent dysfunction of the ciliated epithelium.

Description of the disease

Allergic rhinitis, or rhinitis, is a chronic disease in which a pathological reaction occurs from the respiratory system upon direct contact with an allergen. In medicine there are several synonyms for this pathology - hay fever, hay fever, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. The disease is characterized by rapid development; there is currently no effective treatment. There are several classifications of diseases. Basically, allergic rhinitis is divided into:

• seasonal _ Relapse occurs when exposed to seasonal factors (plant pollen, solar ultraviolet radiation, fungal spores and others). The attack continues for several hours after contact with the irritant;

• year-round . Rhinitis can be provoked by a large number of factors (pet saliva, dust, strong odors). The attack lasts several days, the symptoms are less pronounced.

In addition, according to the ARIA classification, allergic rhinitis is divided into intermittent (manifestations more than 4 days a week, up to 4 relapses per year) and persistent (lasts more than 4 days, symptoms are observed from 4 weeks a year).

Depending on the body's sensitivity to the irritant, the first manifestations of allergic rhinitis may occur 1-20 minutes after direct contact.

How to cure allergic rhinitis with bronchial asthma?

These two diseases are interrelated. An attack of asthma is characterized by suffocation, coughing attacks with very viscous sputum, and wheezing.

Prevention and timely treatment of allergic rhinitis can prevent the development of this terrible disease - bronchial asthma.

A patient with bronchial asthma should always have a special inhaler with him.

The principles of treatment of rhinitis and asthma of allergic origin are the same:

• eliminate (neutralize) allergen(s)
• antiallergic (antihistamine) drugs
• drugs to relieve bronchospasm,
• glucocorticosteroids
• ASIT (allergen-specific immunotherapy)

Treatment of allergic rhinitis

For effective treatment of pathology, timely diagnosis is carried out.

Efforts are then directed towards:

• exclusion of contact with irritants; • relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis; • carrying out allergen-specific immunotherapy; • comprehensive preventive and supportive measures.

treatment of allergic rhinitis

Antihistamines

Treatment of allergic rhinitis necessarily includes taking medications with antihistamine action. This applies to use in children and adults.

It is recommended to use the following drugs:

• second generation – doctors will thaw out their preference for Zodak, Cetrin, Claritin; • third generation – it is recommended to use Zyrtec, Erius or Telfast.

The drug is usually selected by a specialist based on the patient’s condition and his individual characteristics. The doctor must select the correct dosage. The duration of treatment may vary, but is usually at least 14 days. More modern antihistamines are characterized by less or no hypnotic effect, and the onset of action is observed after 20-30 minutes. after consumption. The effect of such remedies lasts for a long time.

First generation antihistamines

The principle of action of these drugs is that they, being competitors of histamine, bind to histamine receptors, but do not activate them. As a result, the allergic reaction does not start, and the histamine itself is gradually neutralized in the blood.

If a runny nose has already begun, antihistamines help to first weaken its symptoms, and then completely stop it.

Systemic antihistamines, administered orally, cause a corresponding effect throughout the body. It is advisable to prescribe them in cases where the allergen has entered the bloodstream and a runny nose is accompanied by skin rashes, fever and other generalized symptoms.

If, apart from a runny nose, there are no other signs of allergy, it will be sufficient to take intranasal antihistamines, which work only in the nasal mucosa. It is clear that if such drops are accidentally swallowed, they also enter the digestive tract, but today most nasal products are produced on the basis of substances with low bioavailability, which are completely decomposed in the liver and do not enter the blood.

Suprastin is one of the most famous antihistamines

Important!

When purchasing nasal antihistamines, it makes sense to read their ingredients. If the solvent of the active substance is water, then the drug will easily penetrate the blood and have the same effect and the same side effects as tablets for allergic rhinitis. If the solvent is polymers - polypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol - the product will only act locally in the nose.

All antihistamines for allergic rhinitis effectively eliminate rhinorrhea, sneezing and itching, second in effectiveness only to nasal hormonal drugs. Nasal antihistamines are the best remedy for conjunctivitis that develops as a result of allergies (they are also dripped into the nose), and systemic drugs are inferior to them in this ability. They work weakly against nasal congestion.

Nasal antihistamines begin to act within 15 minutes after instillation into the nose, systemic antihistamines - within an hour after administration. The action of the first lasts 6-12 hours depending on the drug. The action of the second is 12-24 hours.

Today, azelastine, levocabastine, and dimethindene are used as active antihistamines in drugs for the common cold.

Allergodil is a nasal antihistamine.

The most well-known antihistamines for nasal use are:

1. Allergodil is a spray for allergic rhinitis based on azelastine. Approved for use by children over 6 years of age, prohibited for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
2. Histimet is a medicine for allergic rhinitis based on levocabastine. For children, pregnant and nursing mothers, it is prescribed only by a doctor.
3. Reactin is an analogue of Histimet. Prescribed only to adults, contraindicated during gestation and lactation.
4. Fenistil - drops based on dimethindene. Can be used in children older than 1 month; pregnant and lactating women are contraindicated.
5. Tizin Allergy is a spray for allergic rhinitis based on levocabastine. It is quite safe and can be prescribed by a doctor during pregnancy and for children of different ages.

Antihistamines for allergic rhinitis for oral administration are standard tablets Cetrin, Zyrtec, Kestin, Astemisan, as well as children's syrups - Erius, Claritin and their analogues. Syrups can be given to children from infancy. When prescribing them, an important role is played by the presence or absence of a sedative effect. Antihistamines with a sedative effect such as Tavegil, Diprazine, Suprastin are more effective, but are prescribed for severe rhinitis.

Erius children's allergy syrup

Summary

Nasal antihistamines are used to quickly relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Many of them are safe and approved for use in children, the elderly, and pregnant and nursing mothers. These medications should be used in courses with the frequency specified by the doctor.

It is believed that in cases of mild allergic rhinitis, the use of antihistamines alone may be quite sufficient to relieve all symptoms of allergic rhinitis. If the use of antihistamines is not enough (they really do not have a significant effect on nasal congestion and nasal discharge), then in this case they already speak of a moderate or even severe course of allergic rhinitis.

In such cases, along with antihistamines, doctors have to prescribe drugs from other groups - primarily topical hormonal agents (topical steroids).

Antihistamines are divided into first generation drugs, which have a sedative (hypnotic) effect, and second generation drugs, which do not have this effect. We will look at some drugs of the first and second generations, which are most often used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis in children.

Fenkarol. The sedative effect of fenkarol is either weak or not manifested at all. Side effects, such as dry mucous membranes, are not characteristic of fenkarol.

Diazolin. This drug also causes little hypnotic effect and has a prolonged (long-lasting, continuing even after drug withdrawal) effect.

Suprastin. The hypnotic effect of this drug is quite strong. Additionally, the drug also has an antispasmodic effect, so it is often used as part of a lytic mixture when it is necessary to quickly reduce the temperature, for example, during an acute respiratory infection.

Tavegil. Among all the drugs in this group, tavegil has the most pronounced antipruritic effect. For bronchial asthma and respiratory infections, tavegil is prescribed with caution or not prescribed at all, as it leads to thickening of sputum.

Fenistil has the mildest effect, which is why this drug is often used in children under one year of age. When applied topically, fenistil (fenistil gel) easily relieves itching and redness characteristic of allergic skin reactions.

Zyrtec - the drug does not have a sedative effect, so it is often prescribed to people whose professional activities require quick reactions - for example, drivers. In addition, Zyrtec has zero drug interactions - that is, it does not interact with any medications, therefore it is most often prescribed as part of complex therapy for diseases - both allergic and infectious.

Claritin. The drug is approved for use in children starting from 2 years of age. It does not cause drowsiness and is considered one of the most effective antihistamines. The disadvantages of Claritin include its ability to create toxic combinations with some antifungal drugs (for example, Nizoral) and some antibiotics (for example, Sumamed).

Kestin. A long-acting drug, well suited for the control of seasonal allergic rhinitis. It is usually started to be used 10-15 days before the expected start of flowering in order to negate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis at the beginning of flowering.

Telfast. This drug is considered safe, as it is quickly eliminated from the body and does not cause symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia, which are characteristic of many second-generation antihistamines. The drug begins to act fairly quickly after use and within an hour after use it relieves almost all symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Xizal. The effect of the drug begins within 12 minutes after ingestion and lasts for 24 hours after use. Xyzal is approved for use in children over 6 years of age.

Allergodil is a topical antihistamine (nasal spray). It is characterized by a rapid onset of action with very small administered doses. Ineffective for nasal congestion.

Differential diagnosis

In the process of making an accurate diagnosis at the initial stage, it is important to distinguish allergic rhinitis from other forms of runny nose. So, with a cold or viral infection, itching of the mucous membranes is either absent or mild. Also, with ARVI, the temperature will rise, the ear, submandibular and cervical lymph nodes will enlarge. Characterized by redness and sore throat. However, in order to definitively determine the allergy, the patient is prescribed the following tests:

• cytological examination of a smear of nasal mucus (detects an increase in the number of eosinophils from 10 to 100% with a norm of 0 to 5%);
• determination of the level of IgE in blood serum (with ARVI this indicator does not increase);
• mast cell degranulation test;
• nasal and inhalation provocative tests;
• Skin testing is necessary for persistent symptoms of allergic rhinitis to determine the exact irritant (dust, animal hair, or anything else).

The doctor also examines the inner surface of the nasal cavity using a rhinoscope. Pay attention to the pallor of the mucous membrane with a bluish tint and the appearance of spots. Sometimes polyps are detected. In addition, it is necessary to carry out a differential diagnosis with drug-induced rhinitis, which occurs after prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drops or sprays, idiopathic runny nose (symptoms are similar to allergic, but the IgE level remains normal), rhinitis against the background of cystic fibrosis or Wegener's granulomatosis.

What tests are required?

The diagnosis of the disease is made on the basis of complaints, clinical picture, and examination of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity.

This diagnosis is confirmed by numerous diagnostic procedures, including:

• Skin testing, so-called allergy skin tests. This analysis is carried out using a set of standard allergens. As an alternative, a skin prick test may be prescribed.
• Detection of general and allergen-specific IgE in the blood. An increase in the level of this blood indicator indicates an allergic reaction in the body.
• In a general blood test, a significant number of eosinophils is also an indicator of the development of allergies.
• Cytology of nasal discharge. The smear reveals mast cells, eosinophils, and plasma cells.
• Rhinoscopy in the presence of an allergic rhinitis allows you to see a change in the color of the mucous membrane and the presence of discharge. Chronic nasal congestion is manifested by narrowing of the nasal passages.

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With a long course, the disease also affects changes in a person’s appearance, which is also noted by an experienced doctor. The patient may have bluish circles under the eyes, a widened bridge of the nose, constantly dry lips, and in children the mouth is slightly open.

Nasal discharge caused by an allergen is similar in its symptoms and changes occurring in the nasal cavity to other diseases. The doctor’s task is also to make the correct differential diagnosis.

It is necessary to separate a specific runny nose from diseases such as:

1. Infectious rhinitis;
2. Developmental anomalies;
3. Neoplasms in the nasopharynx;
4. Tuberculosis;
5. Immunodeficiency diseases.

Positive results of skin tests, identification of a blood pattern characteristic of an allergy, certain complaints and examination of the nasal cavity allow the doctor to make a diagnosis without doubt and prescribe a competent treatment regimen. If necessary, patients undergo other allergy tests.

Nasal rinsing solutions

A mandatory step in the treatment of allergic rhinitis is the correct removal of discharge during an allergy attack. Otherwise, stagnation of mucus can provoke the development of a bacterial infection and complications in the form of sinusitis or sinusitis. To prevent this from happening, you can use nasal rinses. This will help not only clear the nasal passages of mucus, but also strengthen local immunity.

The variety of representatives of the Aqualor line will allow each patient to choose the right product

Aquamaris and Aqualor products are very convenient to use - just one click on the sprayer is enough for the drug to cover the entire mucous membrane of the nasal passages with the drug. Even small allergy sufferers can use such drugs. Another good rinse is Dolphin. By rinsing your nose daily with this drug, you can get rid of allergic rhinitis for a long time, since the medicine has preventive properties.

The drug Dolphin should be used especially actively during exacerbation of allergic rhinitis. During severe attacks, the spray will help relieve inflammatory symptoms and promote regeneration of the mucous membrane of the nasal passages. Since the product has virtually no contraindications, it can be used even in pregnant women and young children suffering from allergies. If sensitivity has appeared, rhinitis has intensified, swelling of the nasal passages has increased, sneezing, itching and burning have appeared, then Dolphin without herbs has been specially developed for such patients. It does not contain herbal extracts, so it has a gentler effect on the mucous membrane of the nasal passages.

Vasoconstrictor drops

Vasoconstrictor agents are indeed the most effective in relieving nasal congestion, but they should be used with caution in allergic rhinitis: long-term use of vasoconstrictor drops can not only be addictive, but also increase sensitivity to histamine.

Standing apart is the drug Xymelin Extra, which contains not only a vasoconstrictor component (xylometazoline), but also iptratropium bromide, a substance that reliably stops nasal discharge. It can only be used in adults and children over 6 years of age to reduce the amount of nasal discharge and only occasionally, not regularly.

These products have a tonic effect on the lining of the nasal cavity, eliminate swelling, reduce the amount of mucus secreted, and improve the respiratory process.

The most popular remedies for allergic rhinitis:

• Nazivin is an inexpensive and effective drug.
• Galazolin.
• Vibrocil.
• Nasonex.
• Flixonase.

The products begin to show effect five minutes after application, the result lasts about six hours. Drops and sprays have different concentrations of the aspen active ingredient.

The minimum dosages are used for children, the rest for adults. Medicines are dripped two or three times a day. The duration of the course should not exceed ten days. Otherwise, uncontrolled use leads to a habit, which is fraught with drug-induced rhinitis, addiction, and constant swelling.

It is worth understanding that when fighting allergic rhinitis, such remedies fight the symptoms, but do not eliminate the problem itself. There are a number of contraindications; only a doctor can prescribe the product.

The only effect that vasoconstrictor drops provide is temporary relief of swelling and restoration of breathing through the nose. Their main advantage is their high speed of action: signs of swelling subsiding are observed within 5-10 minutes after nasal instillation. For some drugs, the effect lasts for 12 hours, the standard duration of action is 5-6 hours.

Vasoconstrictor drops for allergic rhinitis are means of emergency use. They allow you to quickly clear your nose before an important meeting or speech, but they will not relieve itching and excess snot. In addition, if they are taken for more than 5-6 days in a row, there is a high risk of developing addiction and drug-induced rhinitis. As a rule, these drugs are used only when absolutely necessary, without considering them as permanent remedies for allergic rhinitis.

Vasoconstrictor drops are widely known. These are Naphthyzin, Tizin, Nazivin, Otrivin, Galazolin, Nazol and many others. We talked about them in detail in a separate article.

Nazol - vasoconstrictor nasal spray

Most vasoconstrictor drops are contraindicated in pregnant women.

In some cases, for allergic rhinitis, systemic vasoconstrictors are prescribed - Koldakt, Rhinopront - but their use must be strictly controlled by a doctor. The use of these drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unacceptable.

Summary

Vasoconstrictor drops for allergic rhinitis can only be considered as an aid. They cannot be used constantly and for a long time.

Symptoms

Allergic rhinitis manifests itself with quite a variety of symptoms. After contact with an allergen, the following may appear:

• itching in the nasal cavity, throat and any area of ​​the skin;
• severe runny nose and sneezing;
• profuse lacrimation.

In some cases, after contact with allergens, the patient begins a severe coughing attack, reminiscent of bronchial asthma. As the disease progresses, you may experience nasal congestion, headaches, stuffy ears, puffy eyes, and constant fatigue.

Most often, the first symptoms of allergies appear in early childhood or adolescence. An adult can already identify a certain pattern between some actions and exacerbation of rhinitis. So, a runny nose may get worse after walking in the park, visiting the library, or cleaning.

The best way to treat allergies is to eliminate all contact with the allergens.

Anticholinergics

In cases where medications must still be used, one or more drugs from the following groups are selected:

1. Antihistamines for oral (swallowing) and intranasal (injection into the nose) use.
   These remedies are the most famous and widely used. However, they also have many side effects, which cannot be completely eliminated even in the latest generation of medicines; Cetrin - antihistamine tablets
2. Hormonal corticosteroids, also in the form of preparations for systemic use and in the form of nasal aerosols. Many people are scared by the word “hormonal”, but at the same time, drugs of this type for intranasal use turn out to be the safest and most effective among all antiallergic drugs;
3. Mast cell membrane stabilizers are medications that show maximum effect in the early stages of allergic rhinitis. If the disease has already entered the main stage, their effect will be blurred;
4. Vasoconstrictors are exclusively a first aid remedy for eliminating nasal swelling. They do not help either from excess snot or from itching and pain in the nose;
5. Anticholinergic drugs, the task of which is solely to reduce the amount of snot;
6. Combined products that combine substances with different principles of action. Among them there are both very effective and practically useless.

Each of these groups includes from several units to several dozen different products, the main ones of which we will consider further. Now let us draw the reader’s attention to the fact that choosing medications for allergic rhinitis makes sense only with an excellent understanding of the principle of their action and the characteristics of the course of a runny nose in a particular organism.

Among these drugs, ipratropium bromide is rarely used against allergic rhinitis. This remedy helps eliminate the abundance of snot and clear the nasal passages. Most often, it is used not so much to get rid of rhinorrhea, but to prepare the nose for the use of corticosteroid drugs and agents that strengthen cell membranes. There is no point in using it without other drugs.

Ipratropium bromide is used for mild to moderate asthma

In folk medicine and simply at home, they often try to treat allergic rhinitis with means that are absolutely useless for it. Moreover, some folk recipes are even downright harmful!

For example:

1. Juices of various plants - from aloe and Kalanchoe to onions and garlic. They cause irritation of the nasal mucosa and only worsen the symptoms of a runny nose. Sometimes they can lead to burns of the mucous membrane and the development of ulcers.
2. Juices of root vegetables - carrots, beets, cyclamen. They are absolutely useless against allergic rhinitis.
3. Garlic and onions inside to strengthen the immune system.
   In one of the articles we already figured out that the stronger the immune system, the stronger the allergy. However, practice shows that these drugs do not affect the course of allergic rhinitis in any way, since the immunity when used is enhanced with a significant delay. You can eat them. If allergic rhinitis persists, garlic juice may even increase symptoms and make the situation worse.
4. Various herbal decoctions, as well as bran and milk with birch tar for oral administration. They cannot have any effect on allergies and runny nose. It is recommended to use such decoctions for a week or two, or even longer. Obviously, during this period, an allergic runny nose often goes away due to the elimination of the allergen, and therefore it may seem that these recipes really work.
5. Homeopathic remedies are absolutely useless for allergies.

Saline solution or salted water is recommended by many doctors to alleviate the condition of allergic rhinitis, but it is impossible to talk about their unambiguous benefits when used in this way. Of course, rinsing the nose helps wash away most of the allergens from the mucous membrane and alleviate symptoms. But at the same time, there is a high risk of the same solution with allergens flowing down the throat and entering the stomach, and from it into the blood. This will lead to the development of a general allergic reaction, skin rashes and sometimes generalized symptoms.

We remember that an allergic runny nose is precisely the body’s defense against allergen entering the blood. Therefore, if carried out incorrectly, such washings aggravate the severity of the disease. If you use saline solution to rinse the nose with an allergic rhinitis, then only so that all of it is blown out of the nose with snot without getting into the throat. Using it this way will be really useful.

After completing all diagnostic examinations and making the correct diagnosis, the doctor prescribes therapy. The treatment takes place in two stages. At the first stage, it is necessary to eliminate inflammatory processes in the mucous membranes, at the second, to begin allergen-specific therapy.

Medicines for the treatment of rhinitis are divided into sprays and drops. The composition of such drops is absolutely the same, the only difference is in the type of dispenser and the method of getting the drug into the body. The drops are equipped with a pipette, which allows you to accurately dose the medicine. The sprays have a spray nozzle; its convenience is that there is no need to tilt your head.

In addition, allergy medications are divided into groups such as:

• Constricting blood vessels.
• Modulating immunity.
• Hormonal.
• Antihistamines.
• Means for rinsing the nasal cavity.

Nasal rinsing preparations are made from natural ingredients, so they actually do not have any contraindications. They contain isotonic solutions that penetrate the nasal mucosa and remove mucus and other foreign substances.

During allergic rhinitis, it is necessary to regularly rinse your nose - any doctor will tell you this. Regularly performing this procedure allows you to quickly remove allergens from the mucous membrane. The components of the drugs make it possible to quickly restore the microflora, which makes it resistant to irritants. Among these funds are:

• Aquamaris.
• Aqua Lor.
• Dolphin.

In addition, it is possible to independently produce rinsing solutions. Iodine, salt or furacillin products are perfect.

It is necessary to rinse your nose correctly:

1. When using solutions in the form of a spray, you need to tilt your head back, then blow your nose thoroughly. The procedure is carried out several times in a row.
2. When using self-prepared solutions, the head tilts forward, the mouth opens as wide as possible, and one of the nostrils is pinched. The solution is poured into the second nostril. Then there is a thorough nose blowing.

Traditionally, the treatment of allergic rhinitis consists of three components:

• Termination of contact with the allergen (for example, the patient’s departure from the area of ​​flowering of allergy-causing plants for the period of this very flowering).
• Drug control of allergic reactions.
• Correction of the immune system (specific immunotherapy, SIT).

Drug treatment for allergic rhinitis is perhaps the most accessible. The main substance that causes an allergic reaction in the body is histamine. Medicines used to control allergic reactions work either by blocking the release of histamine from mast cells (called cromones), by blocking histamine receptors (antihistamines), or by canceling the release of histamine (hormones).

In recent decades, allergic reactions among the population have become very widespread. According to statistics, 8-12% of the world's inhabitants suffer from various forms of allergies, which most often develop at 10-20 years of age.

Allergic rhinitis is one of the variants of an inadequate reaction of the body to various external irritants - pollen of flowering plants, insect bites, mold and yeast fungi, mites in library and house dust, various toxic or flavored chemicals in household chemicals, household items, and to internal irritants - certain foods or medications.

What to do if a child or adult has seasonal or year-round rhinitis? How to treat allergic rhinitis, with what drugs, medicines, drops, sprays? Constant nasal congestion, sneezing, tickling and itching in the nose, and watery eyes cannot be tolerated; this affects the mood, the state of the nervous system, disrupts the usual way of life and reduces performance.

With allergic rhinitis, symptoms begin to appear after contact with the allergen; if it is animal fur, then after being in a room with pets, when using woolen blankets, down pillows, long bouts of sneezing occur; they may appear at the time of contact with the allergen or after some time. that time, more often in the morning.

If this is hay fever, then it can occur at any time when trees or weeds are blooming - from spring to autumn. Moreover, a characteristic sign of allergic rhinitis in children and adults is the formation of a transverse fold on the nose, which occurs from frequent scratching of the nose with incessant itching.

A person with year-round allergic rhinitis may have a constantly stuffy nose and have to breathe only through the mouth. This leads to chronic congestive processes, loss of taste and smell, complicated by the addition of a secondary infection with severe swelling of the mucous membrane and blockage of the paranasal sinuses.

Also, a frequent companion to allergic rhinitis is lacrimation, discomfort in the eyes, itching, redness of the conjunctiva of the eyes - allergic conjunctivitis, swelling of the face, and the appearance of an allergic cough is also possible, which can further provoke the development of bronchial asthma.

• Medicines
• Treatment of pregnant women
• Folk remedies