All articles tagged with #allergic rhinitis
A Hiroshima University study in mice finds that regular matcha intake reduces sneezing caused by allergen exposure by dampening brainstem activity linked to the sneezing reflex, without significantly changing immune markers like IgE, mast cells, or T cells—hinting at a brain-mediated, diet-based approach to managing allergic rhinitis; human studies are planned to confirm applicability.
A BBC health feature explains that allergen immunotherapy—especially sublingual drops taken under the tongue—offers a long-term solution for hay fever by desensitising patients to pollen, with evidence of symptom relief lasting years after treatment ends and potential asthma-risk reduction. While injections carry a small risk of anaphylaxis and uptake is limited, sublingual immunotherapy provides a safer, cost-efficient alternative to injections. Treatment typically lasts about three years and should start weeks before pollen season; complementary options include antihistamine-corticosteroid nasal sprays and reducing pollen exposure. Biologics can help severe cases but are costly and don’t induce remission, underscoring the need for early referral and adherence to treatment regimens.
A study published in Nature Communications found that individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 have a 20% higher occurrence of allergic diseases compared to those not infected, with a more than double likelihood of developing asthma. The study, which included over 22 million individuals from South Korea, Japan, and the UK, also revealed that COVID-19 vaccination with at least two doses weakens the risk of new allergies. The findings emphasize the need for persistent health policies to manage the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection and highlight the increased risk of allergic manifestations in individuals with a history of COVID-19.
A runny nose when eating can be caused by various forms of rhinitis, including allergic and nonallergic rhinitis such as gustatory rhinitis, which is triggered by eating, and vasomotor rhinitis, triggered by changes in temperature and humidity. While self-diagnosis is possible, formal diagnosis by a physician is recommended to rule out other conditions. Treatment options include topical medications, nasal sprays, and procedures like RhinAer, which interrupts nerve signals to reduce symptoms. If the runny nose is bothersome or persistent, it's best to consult a doctor, especially if accompanied by thick or discolored discharge or other concerning symptoms.
Medical experts are reporting a rise in cases of Autumn Sneezing Syndrome, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, during the colder months. Many individuals are experiencing sneezing fits and runny noses without other cold or flu symptoms, leading them to believe they have a different illness. The increase in cases may be attributed to higher levels of airborne mould and fungal spores during autumn, which can trigger hay fever allergies. Common triggers include dead vegetation, grass cuttings, compost heaps, and garden sheds. Allergy experts recommend taking antihistamines and using nasal steroid sprays to alleviate symptoms. Showering and changing clothes after being outside in areas with high mould spore levels can also help reduce exposure.
A study published in Clinical & Experimental Allergy analyzed 13 prospective studies and found that pre-existing allergic conditions, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, were associated with a higher risk of experiencing long COVID. However, the evidence for the association with asthma was uncertain. The study highlights the need for a better and harmonized definition of long COVID for future epidemiological studies.