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Allergic rhinitis - Symptom

Alternative Names

Hay fever; Nasal allergies

Symptoms:

Coughing
Headache
Itching nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
Problems with smell
Runny nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
Tearing eyes

Signs and tests:

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask you questions about your symptoms. Your history of symptoms is important in diagnosing allergic rhinitis, including whether the symptoms vary according to time of day or the season, exposure to pets or other allergens, and diet changes.

Allergy testing may reveal the specific substances that trigger your symptoms. Skin testing is the most common method of allergy testing. This may include prick, patch, or other tests.

If your doctor determines you cannot undergo skin testing, special blood tests may help with the diagnosis.

Allergy symptoms

Allergic rhinitis

Recognizing invader

Reviewed last on: 1/9/2009
Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wallace DV, Dykewicz MS, Bernstein DI, Blessing-Moore J, Cox L, Khan DA, et al. The diagnosis and management of rhinitis: an updated practice parameter. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008 Aug:122(2).

Jen A, Baroody F, de Tineo M, Haney L, Blair C, Naclerio R. As-needed use of fluticasone propionate nasal spray reduces symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2000 Apr:105(4):732-8.

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