Common Triggers & Causes

• Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds (seasonal)
• House dust mites (perennial)
• Pet dander (cats, dogs)
• Mould spores
• Occupational allergens and irritants (chemicals, dust)

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

• Sneezing, often in bouts
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Nasal congestion and obstruction
• Clear rhinorrhoea (runny nose) and post-nasal drip
• Reduced sense of smell, cough, fatigue or poor sleep

Diagnosis & Tests

Accurate diagnosis identifies the offending allergens and rules out other causes of nasal symptoms.

• Detailed clinical history (timing, triggers, family history)
• Nasal examination and nasal endoscopy when indicated
• Skin prick testing to common allergens
• Specific IgE blood tests (RAST/ImmunoCAP) if skin testing is not suitable
• Assessment for associated conditions: asthma, chronic sinusitis, eczema

Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to symptom severity, triggers, and patient preferences. Goals are symptom control, reducing medication side effects, and improving quality of life.

1. Allergen Avoidance & Environmental Measures

• Use allergen-proof mattress/pillow covers and wash bedding in hot water (for dust mite control)
• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and use air conditioning/HEPA filters
• Reduce indoor humidity to discourage mould growth
• Limit pet access to bedrooms and regular grooming if pet allergy is present

2. Medications

• Intranasal corticosteroid sprays — first-line for moderate to severe symptoms
• Oral or intranasal antihistamines for itching, sneezing and runny nose
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast) in selected cases
• Saline nasal irrigation to clear mucus and reduce irritants
• Short courses of oral steroids for severe flare-ups (used cautiously)

3. Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots / Sublingual Tablets)

Allergen immunotherapy reduces long-term sensitivity to allergens and can modify disease course. Options include:

• Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT) — tailored allergy injections over several years
• Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) — daily allergen tablets/drops at home for specific allergens

4. Surgical Options

When structural issues or chronic sinus disease contribute to symptoms, ENT procedures may help:

• Endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps
• Turbinate reduction for persistent nasal obstruction

Prevention & Self-care Tips

• Start preventive treatments (nasal steroids) before pollen season if you are sensitized
• Use saline rinses daily during high exposure periods
• Monitor indoor air quality and reduce allergen reservoirs
• Maintain control of associated conditions — asthma, eczema, sinusitis

When to Consult an ENT or Allergy Specialist

• Symptoms persist despite over-the-counter medications
• Recurrent sinus infections or suspected nasal polyps
• Difficulty controlling asthma alongside nasal symptoms
• Desire to consider long-term disease-modifying treatment like immunotherapy

Why Choose Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan for Allergy Management?

Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan provides a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to allergic rhinitis — combining precise diagnosis, tailored medical therapy, environmental control advice and immunotherapy where indicated to achieve durable relief.

• Individualised testing (skin or blood) to pinpoint triggers
• Access to allergen immunotherapy (SCIT/SLIT) and follow-up support
• Integrated care for associated sinus disease and asthma
• Clear action plans for seasonal peaks and flare management

If allergies affect your daily life, sleep, or work, book a consultation for a targeted evaluation and an evidence-based plan to control symptoms and reduce long-term reliance on medicines.