Nasal Allergies

Nasal allergies—or allergic rhinitis--are very common. Some patients suffer from allergies only at certain times of the year (seasonal). Others can be affected all year round (perennial).

Nasal allergies usually cause nasal tissue to swell causing air passages to become narrower making the nose feel stuffed up. The nose may also make extra mucus, which can plug the nasal passages or drip out of the nose or down the back of the throat (postnasal drip).

Causes of Nasal Allergies

A nasal allergy is a reaction to a substance called an allergen including:

Grass and weeds
Wind-borne pollen
Mold
Dust mites
Furry and feathered animals
Cockroaches

Learn more about nasal allergies.

Symptoms of Nasal Allergies

Runny nose with clear, watery discharge
Stuffy nose
Complaints of post-nasal drip (from the nose down the back of the throat)
Sneezing
Red, watery eyes
Itchy nose, eyes, ears or throat
Plugged-up ears (ear congestion)
Sore throat
Coughing
Sinus pain and swelling
Headache

Other health problems can cause symptoms like those of nasal allergies. These include:

Non-allergic rhinitis and viruses such as colds
Irritants and pollutants, such as strong odors or smoke
Certain medications

Each individual experiences symptoms differently, and symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your otolaryngologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis of Nasal Allergies

Your otolaryngologist will diagnose your condition based on your symptoms and physical examination as well as specific testing for allergies.

Learn more about diagnostic testing for allergies.

Treatment for Nasal Allergies

Effective treatment for nasal allergies includes:

Allergy avoidance strategies
Oral and intranasal antihistamines
Intranasal steroid sprays
Nasal saline rinses
Immunotherapy (performed by an allergist)

What You Should Expect

You will receive a thorough diagnostic examination to evaluate if you have nasal allergies and determine what course of treatment is needed. Careful monitoring and the involvement of an experienced otolaryngologist are important to the successful outcome for patients with ear, nose and throat disorders and conditions.

Multidisciplinary Care

Brigham and Women’s Hospital provides a multidisciplinary approach to patient care by collaborating with colleagues who have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating ear, nose and throat disorders and conditions. In addition, patients have full access to BWH’s world-renowned academic medical community, with its diverse specialists, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Appointments and Locations

Resources

Learn more about nasal allergies in our health library.

Learn more about related problems to nasal allergies on our health library.

Visit the Kessler Health Education Library in the Bretholtz Center to access computers and knowledgeable staff.

Access a complete directory of patient and family services.