Allergic rhinitis is a condition where the nose becomes irritated and inflamed, not due to viruses or bacteria, but environmental factors such as pollen, animal dander, fine dust, mold, and dust mites. It is common and affects all age groups. Allergic rhinitis is divided into two types:

Seasonal allergic rhinitis typically begins at specific times of the year, linked to pollen and weather changes. Symptoms often appear at the start of the cold or hot seasons. Patients experience a runny nose, continuous sneezing, itchy eyes, red eyes, and clear, watery nasal discharge.

Perennial allergic rhinitis occurs year-round from constant exposure to allergens like house dust, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. Symptoms are often worst in the morning, including continuous sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal congestion. Nasal discharge may start clear and become thicker later. Symptoms tend to lessen during the day but can easily return when exposed to cold or dust. Many individuals resort to mouth breathing due to prolonged nasal congestion.

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

Your symptoms—frequent morning sneezing, watery eyes, clear runny nose, and nasal redness—are typical of allergic rhinitis. Sneezing immediately upon waking often links to exposure to bedroom allergens such as house dust, pet dander, mold, dust mites, or temperature changes when leaving the bed.

You should seek medical examination for an accurate diagnosis. A doctor may inquire about factors like symptom frequency and timing (seasonal or perennial), along with your personal or family allergy history. A nasal endoscopy may be ordered to assess mucosal swelling and turbinate hypertrophy. In some cases, doctors might recommend allergy testing to identify specific allergens, especially if the condition is persistent or responds poorly to treatment.

Beyond allergic rhinitis, other conditions such as vasomotor rhinitis, irritation from cold air or air conditioning, or hormonal changes can cause similar symptoms. Patients require examination by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor for differential diagnosis. To reduce symptoms, you should keep your bedroom well-ventilated and clean, limiting dust. Wash bedding every one to two weeks, avoid setting the air conditioner temperature too low while sleeping, and rinse your nose with saline solution every morning and evening.

Doctor Chau Tra Linh

Ear, Nose, and Throat Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM