Allergic Rhinitis: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as hay fever, dust allergy, constant catarrh.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Allergic rhinitis is sneezing, itching and a runny or blocked nose triggered by allergens such as dust, harmattan haze, mould or animal dander — often mistaken for an endless cold. It frequently coexists with asthma and eczema. The right antihistamines and nasal sprays control it well.
Symptoms
Repeated sneezing fits
Runny nose with clear, watery discharge
Blocked, itchy nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Itchy throat or ears
Symptoms triggered by dust, smoke or weather change
Snoring and poor sleep from blockage
Causes & risk factors
Dust mites in bedding and furnishings
Harmattan dust and dry-season haze
Moulds, cockroach allergens and animal dander
Family tendency to allergies
Treatment & self-care
Non-drowsy antihistamine tablets and steroid nasal sprays, used regularly as a clinician advises, control symptoms effectively. Reduce exposure: dust-proof bedding, wash bedding in hot water, keep windows closed on dusty days and consider a face covering in harmattan. Persistent uncontrolled symptoms warrant ENT or allergy review.
See a doctor urgently if
Symptoms persisting most days despite regular treatment
One-sided nasal blockage or bleeding (needs examination)
Snoring with daytime sleepiness
Accompanying wheeze or breathlessness
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Allergic Rhinitis?
Early signs often include repeated sneezing fits, runny nose with clear, watery discharge, blocked, itchy nose. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Allergic Rhinitis be treated?
Non-drowsy antihistamine tablets and steroid nasal sprays, used regularly as a clinician advises, control symptoms effectively. Reduce exposure: dust-proof bedding, wash bedding in hot water, keep windows closed on dusty days and consider a face covering in harmattan. Persistent uncontrolled symptoms warrant ENT or allergy review.
When should I see a doctor about Allergic Rhinitis?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: symptoms persisting most days despite regular treatment; one-sided nasal blockage or bleeding (needs examination); snoring with daytime sleepiness; accompanying wheeze or breathlessness.