Allergic rhinitis occurs when the body overreacts to environmental allergens such as house dust, pollen, animal dander, mold, or other irritants.

Dr. Pham Huynh Bich Tram, a specialist in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) at Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic, explains that upon first exposure to an allergen, the immune system identifies it and produces IgE antibodies. In subsequent exposures, IgE triggers mast cells to release histamine and other substances that prolong the inflammatory response, leading to sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose, and persistent nasal congestion. Seasonal transitions, with their fluctuating temperatures and humidity, create favorable conditions for pollen and mold growth, increasing the likelihood of allergic rhinitis flare-ups.

Dr. Tram provides some tips to help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.

Daily nasal rinsing with saline solution

Saline solution helps remove dust, pollen, and allergens adhering to the nasal lining, keeping it moist, reducing dryness, and limiting irritation. It is advisable to use sterile 0.9% saline solution (NaCl) purchased from pharmacies, avoiding homemade solutions that might lack hygiene or have incorrect concentrations, which could harm the nasal lining.

Keep the nose, throat, and head warm

According to Dr. Tram, individuals with allergic rhinitis should avoid sudden exposure to changes in temperature, humidity, or cold winds, especially in the nose, throat, head, and neck areas. The nasal lining reacts by increasing mucus secretion and compensatory vasodilation to retain heat, leading to swelling, congestion, and a more pronounced runny nose.

Dr. Tram performing a nasal endoscopy on a patient. *Photo: Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic*

Nasal steaming with warm water

Warm steam helps to thin mucus and moisturize dry, irritated nasal linings. It is best to use clean warm water or saline solution for steaming. Avoid using concentrated essential oils, as their strong scents can cause reverse irritation and exacerbate symptoms.

Maintain a clean living environment

Regularly dust, vacuum carpets, curtains, sheets, and pillowcases at least one to two times per week. Use an air purifier to remove pollen, mold, and dust mites, as these allergens thrive during the humid rainy season. When dusting, use a damp cloth or rag instead of a dry one to prevent dust from scattering and settling on surfaces or people.

Maintain appropriate air humidity

Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%, not exceeding 60%, as this range provides ideal conditions for mold, dust mites, and cockroaches to flourish. You can use a humidifier or place a small bowl of water in the room to prevent nasal dryness and irritation.

Boost immunity

Exercise regularly, eat a nutritious diet, and avoid unhygienic foods to strengthen your immune system. Additionally, minimize exposure to nasal irritants such as dust, pollen, animal dander, or strong cleaning chemicals. Consider limiting pet ownership if you are allergic to animal dander.

Dr. Tram also advises patients to follow their specialist's instructions and avoid self-medicating with nasal sprays. If symptoms like persistent nasal congestion, runny nose, thick yellow or green nasal discharge, or frontal pain occur, patients should consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist for timely treatment and to prevent complications.

Uyen Trinh