immunology allergic disorders
Allergic Rhinitis
Symptoms and Signs of Allergic Rhinitis
Patients have itching (in the nose, eyes, or mouth), sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal and sinus obstruction. Sinus obstruction may cause frontal headaches; Sinusitis is a frequent complication. Coughing and wheezing may also occur, especially if asthma is also present. The most prominent feature of perennial rhinitis is chronic nasal obstruction, which, in children, can lead to Otitis Media (Chronic Suppurative) ; symptoms vary in severity throughout the year. Itching is less prominent than in seasonal rhinitis. Signs include edematous, bluish-red nasal turbinates and, in some cases of seasonal allergic rhinitis, conjunctival injection and eyelid edema. If Allergic Conjunctivitis is present, symptoms include bilateral mild to severe ocular itching, conjunctival hyperemia, photosensitivity, eyelid edema, and a watery or stringy discharge. 