I have seen plenty of boys with watery itchy eyes, runny itchy noses and sneezing since Term 2 began and there is no hay to be seen and it’s not spring!

Rhinitis is inflammation of the nose.

This allergy is commonly caused by sensitivity to pollens, dust mites, animal hair and moulds.

Some have a seasonal allergy to grass, tree or weed pollens. Others may have perennial allergic rhinitis which can affect them at any time of the year, usually from dust or animal hair. Give those blazers a good shake outdoors.

Remember:

• Asthma can be harder to control if you have hayfever.
• Food allergies do not cause hayfever.

The nose acts as a filter and an immune response occurs if you are allergic, causing inflammation of the lining of the nose and more mucus to be produced.

If the symptoms persist then talk to your Doctor. They may refer you to an Allergy Specialist for allergy testing.

Common treatments are: 

• Corticosteroid nasal sprays which have very low dose steroids and are very effective if used correctly. They need to be used regularly and for a period of time. 
• Antihistamines – non-drowsy, are useful to control sneezing and itching and need only be used when symptoms are present.
• Allergy eye drops are effective for watery itchy eyes.
• Decongestant sprays and tablets should only be used for a few days. They dry the nose and can cause problems if used long term. The tablets should not be taken by someone with high blood pressure.
• Saline nasal rinses are a natural product and help relieve symptoms. You can make your own solution using 5g of salt in 500ml of cool boiled water.
• Immunotherapy may be recommended where the person is exposed regularly to small doses of the allergen to help build tolerance. This is done under the care of an Allergy Specialist.

Click here to see a sample treatment plan

Complications include:

• Sleep disturbance
• Poor concentration
• Snoring
• Ear and sinus infections.

Sister Margaret Bates
College Nurse