COPD allergic rhinitis

‘Achoo, achho, achooo…was the regular story at Mr. Pradeep’s house. Even before the cock crows the house was set alert by his sneezes. This was the daily routine at home just like the alarm clock.

Sneezings followed by running nose itching in the nose, eyes, ears all are common for him every morning. When he approached us he was into total distress. This is nothing but allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy) is not an easy disorder to live with. Though it may sound very benign to a non-sufferer, only the patient knows how nagging this condition is.

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy) is an inflammation of the nasal passages characterized by symptoms that include any combination of the following: sneezing, nasal congestion, nasal itching, and discharge from the nose. Two-third of all patients with this condition develop it before the age of 30.

Causes of Allergic Rhinitis

How did you get that cold again?

The troublesome bout of allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy) which a lot of people dread can be triggered by a number of allergens. Allergens are substances that can induce an ‘allergic reaction’ in the body.

Some of the allergens that are common culprits in cases of allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy):

•    Pollen, Dust, Outdoor molds, House dust mites, Wood dust, Exposure to certain animals (including pets), Cockroaches, Rodents, Irritant triggers such as smoke, pollution, and strong smells.

•    Weather: Hot, dry, windy days are more likely to trigger an allergy attack.

•    Genetics: Heredity seems to play an important role in allergic diseases. When a susceptible person is exposed to an allergen such as pollen or dust, the body releases certain chemicals which include ‘histamine’. Histamine release is responsible for allergy symptoms.

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

The little red runny nose… Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy) can include any combination of the following symptoms :- Repetitive Sneezing, Runny nose (rhinorrhoea), Nasal congestion, Itchy nose, ear, throat, eyes, Watery eyes, Reduced sense of smell, Post-nasal discharge. Later stages it may continue to have cough (due to the post nasal discharge), Sinus headaches, Blocked ears, Nasal polyps, Eyelid swelling, Injected sclerae (redness of the white part of eyes).

Diagnosis of Allergic Rhinitis

Physical examination may give some further clues to the treating physician and these include :
Paleness or discoloration of the lining of the nose, Nasal polyps in some cases, Eyelid swelling.

Homeopathic Treatment :-

Homeopathy indeed has the credit of relieving a large number of patients from the distress of allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy). The medication targets the body’s immune system whereby it reduces the hypersensitivity to the allergens. Over a period of time, the patient reacts less aggressively to the allergens and gradually the hypersensitivity is cured.

Self Care for Allergic Rhinitis

These tips have been clinically verified in our patients and have been found to give good results since there is a scientific backing to each of them.

•    Keep a food diary to ascertain food intolerances.
•    Increase your antioxidant intake by taking plenty of fruits and vegetables
•    Zinc intake from mushrooms, whole grains, nuts & seeds is good for patients with allergies
•    Selenium intake from fish, mushrooms, cabbage is also very helpful
•    Eat oily fish 3 times a week or 2 tbsp or 2 tbsp of flaxseeds everyday
•    Avoid or minimize wheat and dairy products in your diet
•    Avoid alcohol and sugary foods

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