Allergic Rhinitis Complications
Allergic rhinitis is the inflammation of the nasal passages caused by allergens such as pollen, mold and other substances. It is also known as grass or hay fever and affects about 20 percent of the population. If left untreated, allergic rhinitis can lead to complications such as asthma, sinusitis, and even viral or bacterial infections.
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Dizziness
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People who have allergic rhinitis can sometimes suffer from vertigo or lightheadedness. Allergens can cause fluid buildup in the inner ear, or cochlea. The endolymph fluid in cochlea and perilymph fluid in the semi-circular ear canal control balance. Extra fluid can disturb balance and cause Meniere's syndrome. This condition, if left untreated, can practically disable a person.
Lightheadedness is another less severe symptom associated with allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines and prednisone are often used to alleviate both of these symptoms. There are also medications such as antivert and meclizine that can stop the spinning associated with vertigo. Lorazepam and valium can also be used for severe dizziness.
Sinus Infections
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Sinusitis is the inflammation of the membranes in the sinus cavities. There are four sinus cavities: frontal (in the forehead), maxillary (behind the cheek bones), ethmoid (between the eyes) and sphenoid (behind the eyes). Allergic rhinitis can increase the mucus in any of these sinus cavities. If this mucus remains in the sinus cavities for any length of time, it can make these sensitive cavities prone to viruses, bacterial or fungal infections. In rare cases, surgery might often be required. Vaporizers, antihistamines and corticosteroids can help clear the sinuses before infection sets in.
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Asthma
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Asthma is a common problem with allergic rhinitis. Allergens from pollen can also affect the bronchial tubes in the lungs and cause inflammation. If left untreated, the lungs can constrict and produce excess mucus, causing the shortness of breath associated with asthma. These reactions of the lungs are protective immune responses against the offending allergens (i.e. grass pollen or mold). Antihistamines and inhalers can alleviate symptoms. Prednisone is often used to treat severe asthma.
Upper Respiratory Infections
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Just like the sinus cavities and sinusitis, mucus that remains in the lungs can cause infections. Because immunity defense mechanisms are at play with allergic rhinitis, the lungs are more susceptible to cold viruses, bacterial infections and bronchitis. People with chronic allergic rhinitis often get sick when pollen or mold levels are high. Severe congestion in the lungs can spur hacking coughs and shortness of breath.
Nasal Polyps
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Allergic rhinitis can cause nasal polyps in both adults and children. Nasal polyps are growths caused by inflamed mucus membranes. They can appear near the opening of the nostrils and extend down the throat. Nasal polyps can block nasal passages and hinder breathing. These growths can also cause sinus pressure, headaches and loss of taste or smell. The growths can be treated with medicine or surgery; however, they can grow back after surgery.
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References
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- Photo Credit Eyesbunsbury.com; 2009.
