The Argentine Association of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Aaaeic) says that 80% of allergic rhinitis cases occur in the pediatric age group and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in the run-up to spring, the season when allergen concentrations are highest. Air.
Aaaeic said allergic rhinitis is a “very common” disease in both children and adults, affecting 20% of the population in Argentina, with 80% of cases occurring in the pediatric age group. Furthermore, he noted that 35% of Argentinian boys aged 13 to 14 years suffer from allergic rhinitis (AR), the most common allergic disease affecting up to 40% of the world’s population and constantly increasing due to environmental and other factors Increase. Pollution, if not properly controlled, can also lead to significant absenteeism and school absences.
The most common causes of this are allergens such as house dust mites, pollen from various plants, fungi, etc. At the same time, many people with allergic rhinitis also suffer from bronchial asthma, which is why the association emphasizes the importance of “raising awareness of early diagnosis and treatment.”
Although pollen concentrations of various plants and fungi are significantly higher during spring, most people suffer from nasal, eye, and/or bronchial problems at any time of the year, with no seasonal or geographical differences. To this end, Aaaeic emphasizes that the first step is to “get a good diagnosis” and understand which pollen is causing the allergic reaction.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis are varied and may include crystalline and watery nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy nose, eyes, and ears, watery eyes, coughing, shortness of breath, and changes in some people’s quality of life.
Hay fever is a respiratory and ocular symptom caused by pollen caused by certain trees (eg, cypress, ash, plantain), grasses (bermudagrass, ryegrass, bromegrass), and herbaceous weeds (eg, ragweed). Caused by pollination of grasses)., Chenopodium).
In addition, the presence of mites (tiny microscopic insects) that are almost permanently in contact with humans is one of the most common causes of respiratory allergies. Therefore, the association recommends research with allergy and immunology experts focused on understanding the pathogen and its treatments aimed at controlling symptoms and disease.
When rhinitis is associated with asthma, the patient’s health can be significantly affected, and even underdiagnosis or inadequate treatment can worsen existing asthma. Other conditions associated with rhinitis include sinusitis, conjunctivitis, serous otitis media, recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, and sleep disorders. Children of allergic parents are more likely to develop the disease.
> How to treat and how to avoid
Allergic rhinitis can be treated with second-generation antihistamines, corticosteroids, and vaccines. It is recommended to limit outdoor activities on days with higher pollen levels, keep car windows closed when traveling, wear sunglasses to protect eye membranes, and ventilate homes when temperatures are at their lowest (when pollen particles are not present).