If you repeatedly sneeze more than 10 times in a row upon waking in the morning, or if you experience nasal congestion, a runny nose like water, and itching in the nose and eyes, you should suspect allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is a common condition, affecting about 10-20% of the population. Although allergic rhinitis cannot be completely cured yet, symptoms can be alleviated with medication or surgery.

◇ If a parent has allergies, the probability of their child developing allergies is 40-80%

There are two main causes of allergic rhinitis. One is genetic factors. Professor Jo Hyung-joo of the Department of Otolaryngology at Severance Hospital said, "If there is a family history of allergies, individuals may show sensitive reactions to various allergens," and "When parents have allergic diseases, the probability of their children developing allergic diseases ranges from at least 40% to as high as 80%."

Another cause is environmental factors. Seasonal allergic rhinitis, which occurs only during certain seasons, is primarily caused by pollen, while perennial allergic rhinitis, with symptoms persisting regardless of the season, is generally caused by house dust mites. Cockroaches, mold, and animal hair are also common allergens.

◇Primarily used antihistamines

Antihistamines are mainly used for allergic rhinitis. They are effective against the typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. In particular, recently developed medications that do not cause side effects like dizziness or drowsiness have been introduced, allowing patients to take medication without disrupting daily life or work. Steroid sprays also show good results, and for severe cases of allergic rhinitis, injections or sublingual immunotherapy may be administered.

Treatment through surgery

Surgery does not cure allergic rhinitis completely, but it can alleviate symptoms and reduce the need for medication. Professor Jo Hyung-ju said, "When the cartilage or bones of the nose are crooked and cause severe nasal congestion, septoplasty is performed to correct the septum and relieve symptoms," and "When chronic hypertrophic rhinitis occurs alongside allergic rhinitis, turbinoplasty or turbinate reduction surgery helps to improve airflow." If severe allergic rhinitis persists for a long time, cysts or sinusitis may develop inside the nose, and in such cases, if there is no response to medication, endoscopic sinus surgery may be necessary.

◇Avoid the causative substance

If pollen is the cause of allergic rhinitis, avoid being near specific plants that trigger allergies, and especially wear a mask during the spring when pollen is abundant. If pet hair from dogs or cats is the cause, avoid contact with or proximity to them. When house dust mites are the cause, control indoor temperature and humidity to eliminate conditions suitable for mites. Additionally, clean environments conducive to mites, such as bedding and carpets, with a vacuum cleaner or wash them frequently.

===========

The probability of being inherited from parents is about 40% to 80%.

I have had it since I was young, and now it seems to have become chronic.

My husband doesn't seem to have allergies, so ours are genetic.

Fortunately, the impact does not affect the children.

It can be resolved with surgery.

A friend told me that the surgery cost is about 250.