Answer:

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal lining due to an overreaction to allergens such as house dust, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold, and tobacco smoke. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances as threats, triggering an excessive allergic response. Common symptoms include continuous sneezing, clear runny nose, nasal congestion, and nasal itching, possibly accompanied by itchy eyes, sore throat, and coughing. These symptoms often worsen in the early morning or at night, especially with changes in weather or environment.

Polluted air contains fine dust (PM2.5), exhaust fumes, chemicals, and microorganisms that can irritate the nasal lining, causing inflammation and swelling. When allergens enter, the allergic reaction intensifies. Fine dust and toxic gases disrupt the local immune system of the respiratory tract, causing the body to overreact to allergens. Additionally, air pollution reduces the self-cleaning ability of nasal cilia, leading to mucus, bacteria, and allergen buildup, which promotes severe inflammation.

Doctor Huu performs a nasal endoscopy on a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

To control allergic rhinitis symptoms, implement multiple measures simultaneously: limit exposure to polluted air by wearing masks, using air purifiers, avoiding tobacco smoke and chemicals, and maintaining a well-ventilated, clean living space. Daily nasal rinsing with physiological saline helps remove allergens and dirt, reducing nasal lining swelling. Patients must follow prescribed medication for inflammation control, strictly avoid prolonged use of vasoconstrictors, and improve overall health, get enough sleep, and limit stress to stabilize the allergic constitution.

If not well-controlled, allergic rhinitis can lead to acute rhinosinusitis, acute pharyngitis, allergic conjunctivitis, chronic sinusitis, and nasal polyps. If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, with continuous nasal congestion, purulent discharge, or headache, seek early examination at an ear, nose, and throat department for timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

Master of Science, Doctor, Level I Specialist Ho Van Huu

Ear, Nose, Throat Center

Tam Anh General Hospital