Understanding Allergic Rhinitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Jane Mwikali suffers from a runny and blocked nose, making it hard for her to breathe. This issue is partly due to the unpredictable weather changes related to climate change.

The current rainy and cold weather in Kenya often leads to colds, flu, and pneumonia. Right now, the focus is on nasal congestion and runny noses, which are linked to allergies and seasonal illnesses.

Many people are experiencing allergic rhinitis, showing symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, itchy skin, and nasal blockage.

Some worry this may be a new strain of Covid-19 or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). However, doctors clarify there is a clear difference in symptoms, allowing for proper treatment.

This idea is known as the runners and blockers concept. Dr. Moses Mwangi explains that the early phase of allergic rhinitis, called the runners stage, includes symptoms like a runny nose and watery eyes. Treatment at this stage often involves antihistamines.

As the condition worsens, it can lead to nasal congestion and thick mucus, marking the late phase or blockers stage. Mwikali describes her blocked nose as chronic, disrupting her sleep and causing discomfort. She now uses steroid inhalers for treatment.

The runners and blockers concept was introduced by Dr. Robin Green, a paediatric pulmonologist in South Africa, and was first published in a medical journal in 1988.

Doctors explain that allergic rhinitis is the inflammation of the nasal lining caused by allergens like dust, paint, and pollen. There are two types: perennial, which occurs year-round, and seasonal, which happens during specific times, like when plants flower. Both types share similar symptoms, but nasal congestion is more prevalent in perennial rhinitis.

A study from Moi University involving over 3,000 patients found that modern lifestyles and pollution contribute to more allergic disorders in urban areas. Neither type of allergic rhinitis is life-threatening, but both can result in poor health quality, sleep issues, and fatigue.

About one-third of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis may develop asthma. Dr. J.K. Patel, an expert in ear, nose, and throat conditions, states that treatment typically involves first-generation antihistamines.

Dr. Patel further explains that second-generation antihistamines are more effective and safer because they do not enter the brain, helping patients like Mwikali. Some older antihistamines can cause sedation and negative effects on heart health.

Regular exercise can help ease symptoms. Therefore, those with running and blocked noses due to allergies should consult qualified medical professionals, especially ENT specialists, for proper treatment before their conditions worsen.