Allergies to environmental factors such as pollens, mold, animal dander, and other substances are very common. For many people, allergies are seasonal, but for others they can occur year-round. In the United States, approximately 25.2% of adults have seasonal allergies.
The term 'allergic rhinitis' refers to a group of symptoms that affect the nose and surrounding areas. These symptoms include nasal congestion, a runny nose, postnasal drip, sneezing, and itching of the eyes, nose, and throat. International research shows that the most common symptoms are a runny nose and nasal congestion. Typically, symptoms occur more than 4 consecutive days per week and for more than 4 consecutive weeks per year.
Allergic rhinitis can also increase the risk of other health conditions. These include rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nasal cavity and sinuses), migraine or tension headaches, and sleep-related problems such as obstructive sleep apnea.
From a biological perspective, the immune system is designed to protect the body by reacting to perceived invaders in the respiratory system. This is normally beneficial. However, in some individuals—due to genetic and other factors—the immune response can become imbalanced and excessive, leading to prolonged and uncomfortable symptoms.
Environmental allergens such as pollens, grasses, dust, insects, mold, and animal dander can be identified through testing by an allergist. The first line of treatment is to avoid exposure to the offending substances whenever possible. In addition, air filtration systems may help reduce exposure to allergens and can improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Another treatment option is allergy desensitization, also known as allergen immunotherapy. This approach can help reduce the body’s sensitivity to allergens over time and may be effective for long-term symptom control.
There are also several medications available, both over-the-counter and by prescription. These are typically administered as nasal sprays or oral pills and include antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. While effective, these medications can have side effects, particularly when taken in pill form.
Low-pressure nasal irrigation has been shown to improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Regular nasal irrigation may also help balance the nasal microbiota by reducing levels of potentially harmful bacteria while relieving symptoms. Additionally, the natural compound xylitol has been shown to be effective in managing chronic sinus and nasal conditions and may be more effective than standard saline solutions.
Certain dietary supplements may also be helpful. One of the most commonly used is quercetin. Highly absorbable forms of quercetin such as our Quercetin Wellness have been shown to significantly improve symptoms of pollen allergies, including eye itching, sneezing, and nasal discharge. In one study, a dose of 500 mg daily was used. Another study involving patients with asthma found that highly absorbable quercetin also improved symptoms of allergic rhinitis at a dose of 200 mg.
Cesarone, Maria R., Gianni Belcaro, Shu Hu, Mark Dugall, Morio Hosoi, Andrea Ledda, Beatrice Feragalli, Claudia Maione, and Roberto Cotellese. 2020. “Supplementary Prevention and Management of Asthma With Quercetin Phytosome: A Pilot Registry.” Minerva Medica 110 (6): 524–29. https://doi.org/10.23736/s0026-4806.19.06319-5.
Yamada, S, M Shirai, Y Inaba, and T Takara. 2022. “Effects of Repeated Oral Intake of a Quercetin-containing Supplement on Allergic Reaction: A Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Double-blind Parallel-group Study.” PubMed 26 (12): 4331–45. https://doi.org/10.26355/eurrev_202206_29072.
