Allergic rhinitis or sinusitis

Abstract

Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the nasal passages. Allergic rhinitis occurs when a person’s immune system overreacts and aggressively fights a usually harmless substance (called an allergen). This results in inflammation or rhinitis with symptoms such as sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, runny nose (typically clear discharge), postnasal drip, coughing and fatigue. About 70% of patients with allergic rhinitis also have allergic conjunctivitis with symptoms such as itchy, red, watery eyes. Allergic rhinitis can sometimes lead to sinusitis.