Dr. Nguyen Huu Truong, Deputy Director of the Clinical Immunology and Allergy Center at Bach Mai Hospital, stated that many believe respiratory allergies primarily flare up in spring due to pollen dispersal. However, summer in the Northern region also sees a significant increase in allergy-causing factors.

High temperatures combined with sharply rising humidity after rain create a favorable environment for house dust mites, mold, and airborne spores to thrive. Additionally, frequent air conditioner use in enclosed spaces exposes people to indoor allergens for extended periods. In individuals with an allergic constitution, the immune system overreacts to these factors, triggering a range of upper respiratory symptoms.

According to experts, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis share many similar symptoms, such as nasal congestion or a runny nose. This similarity often leads to confusion.

Allergic rhinitis is a condition where the immune system overreacts to environmental allergens. Typical signs include: itchy nose, eyes, or throat; continuous sneezing fits; and clear, watery nasal discharge. Symptoms often appear suddenly upon exposure to dust, weather changes, or allergens.

Sinusitis, conversely, typically involves prolonged inflammation within the sinus cavities. Patients often experience: persistent nasal congestion; thick, yellow or green nasal discharge; pain or pressure in the forehead, cheekbones, or bridge of the nose; and increased pain when bending over. Reduced sense of smell, fatigue, or a low-grade fever may also accompany these symptoms.

"The key difference is that allergic rhinitis is often characterized by itching and sneezing, whereas sinusitis typically causes facial pain and persistent thick nasal discharge," Dr. Truong emphasized.

The doctor also warned that a common mistake is patients self-medicating with nasal decongestant sprays containing vasoconstrictive ingredients like oxymetazoline or xylometazoline. These medications quickly relieve nasal congestion, leading many to use them for many weeks or months.

However, vasoconstrictive drugs should only be used for a short duration, typically not exceeding 3-5 days as directed by a doctor. Prolonged misuse can lead to medication-induced rhinitis. In such cases, the nasal lining becomes damaged, swollen, and dependent on the medication. Increased usage exacerbates nasal congestion.

Experts also noted that allergic rhinitis is not a bacterial infection; therefore, self-medicating with antibiotics is ineffective and increases the risk of antibiotic resistance and unnecessary side effects.

Illustrative photo: Wavebreakmedia

To minimize allergic rhinitis flare-ups during summer, people should implement several measures. These include: limiting exposure to allergens; regularly washing bedding with hot water; frequently cleaning homes; maintaining well-ventilated living environments to reduce mold; rinsing the nose with saline solution after exposure to dusty environments; and using medication strictly as prescribed.

For allergic rhinitis, corticosteroid nasal sprays are foundational medications that effectively and safely control inflammatory responses when used as directed. Unlike vasoconstrictive drugs, these medications require a few days to become effective, so patients should not discontinue them prematurely.

Although not life-threatening, allergic rhinitis can significantly impact quality of life, causing insomnia, fatigue, and reduced ability to study and work. Experts advise that if persistent sneezing, nasal congestion, or a runny nose occurs, individuals should seek examination at specialized medical facilities to identify the cause and choose appropriate treatment.

Le Nga