rhinitis%20-%20allergic
RHINITIS - ALLERGIC
Treatment Guideline Chart
Allergic rhinitis is a symptomatic disorder of the nose secondary to IgE-mediated inflammation of the nasal membranes induced after exposure to allergens.
Major symptoms include nasal itching, watery rhinorrhea, nasal obstruction/congestion, sneezing and postnasal drainage.
Other symptoms include headache, conjunctival symptoms, eye pruritus, impaired smell and morning cough.
Symptoms can reverse spontaneously with or without treatment.

Rhinitis%20-%20allergic Patient Education

Patient Education

  • Provide general information about the disease and available treatments
    • Manage patient’s expectations from therapy and explain that a complete cure may not be possible
  • Provide educational materials as necessary
  • Educate patient about the proper use of medications and possible side effects
    • Concomitant medications should also be reviewed to determine if the patient is taking drugs that may cause oral or nasal dryness
  • Educate patient about the complications of allergic rhinitis (eg otitis media and chronic sinusitis)
  • Advise patient regarding the proper use and timing of medications during times when allergen exposure is unavoidable
  • Advise patient about lifestyle modification such as nasal irrigation with saline to clear the nose before sleeping and adjusting duration and time of sleep
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