Allergic Rhinitis

occurs when your immune system becomes sensitized to non-infectious particles such as plant pollens, molds, dust mites, animal dander, as well as certain foods and medicines. When you encounter these substances, your immune system responds as if they are harmful and triggers the release of histamine into mucous membranes, the lungs, and skin. As a result, your blood vessels dilate and cause swelling and redness. If the reaction occurs in your nasal passages, your nose becomes itchy, runny, and congested from the irritation, and you begin to sneeze.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

is commonly referred to as “hay fever,” although it’s caused by more than just “hay.”

• Late March or early April is a common time for allergic reactions from tree pollens.
• Late spring or summer symptoms are usually due to ragweed, the main cause of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis.
• October and November are common months for allergic rhinitis caused by mold spores in fallen leaves.

Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

has no season. It occurs from exposure to year-round allergic sources – things like pet hair, houseplants, carpeting, upholstery, mold on wallpaper, and even components in air pollution.

Non-Allergic Rhinitis

is considered a vasomotor response to irritants rather than an immune response. Your symptoms may be similar to those of Allergic Rhinitis, except for the itchiness, but the sources of your reaction and the responses to treatment are usually different. It can be difficult to distinguish Non-Allergic from Allergic Rhinitis. Sometimes, the non-allergic form can be confirmed only after therapy for typical allergy triggers has been unsuccessful. Common sources of Non-Allergic Rhinitis are cigarette smoke and air pollutants as well as strong odors, alcoholic beverages, cold temperature, and rebound reaction from over-use of medications such as decongestant spray.