Allergic rhinitis - what causes nasal congestion and how to treat a runny nose in an adult? Nasal drops for bronchial asthma.
For some people, a runny nose occurs easily and without consequences. Others have a constantly stuffy or “running” nose, headaches, and often find it difficult to breathe. What is this connected with? First of all, a runny nose is a “calling card” of many diseases. Among them are tonsillitis, sore throat, stomatitis, sinusitis. A runny nose can also be caused by an injury to the nasal septum, which makes breathing difficult. Often a runny nose is caused by allergies. Then it can be complicated by a pre-asthmatic condition, which, if left untreated, can develop into severe asthma. Weak people have an increased risk of developing bronchial asthma. Sometimes a runny nose starts simply because you get out of warm room in cold, damp weather. How to distinguish such a reaction of the body to cold from a really dangerous condition? If a runny nose persists for a long time, this is a serious reason to contact an otolaryngologist or allergist. Ordinary acute rhinitis goes away within a few days. If after a week it is still difficult to breathe, there is general discomfort, headaches, lacrimation and pain in the eyes appear at times, then there is a danger of developing other, more serious diseases. If the sinuses of the nose are clogged with mucus or pus, then breathing is difficult, and in addition to a runny nose, shortness of breath appears, and then symptoms of bronchial asthma. A whole range of symptoms is often observed: inflammation of the eyes, persistent runny nose, bronchial asthma.
One of the common diseases respiratory tract is allergic rhinitis.
According to statistics, im in different shapes Almost a quarter of the population is sick.
But how to identify this disease and it from an ordinary virus? Let's figure it out.
But the use of antibiotics for allergic rhinitis is completely useless and even harmful, so if you decide to take it on your own and there is no effect within 3-4 days, then consult a doctor for advice.
Attention! Treatment with folk remedies is not practiced, since herbs themselves are strong allergens.
Allergy prevention
No special prevention has been developed. If you or your family members have a predisposition to allergies, it is important to eliminate possible allergens.
One of the modern means that have managed to prove themselves positively are subtle in the nose, which retain a significant portion of allergens.
Features for pregnant and lactating women
During pregnancy and lactation, women's hormonal background, which may cause increased sensitivity
to external stimuli. Moreover, often after the cessation of this period, allergies goes away on its own.
Treatment is complicated by the fact that not all medications can be used to preserve the baby’s health.
Usually a specialist prescribes soft antihistamines remedy, also advises completely eliminating contact with the allergen.
Read more about nasal congestion during pregnancy.
Features in children
Allergic rhinitis in children is usually diagnosed between the ages of 4 and 7 years. Until the age of 3, children are not prone to allergies, but with a constant impact on children's body external irritants, the development of a chronic form of the disease is possible.
Of course, it also plays a role heredity. The disease can be suspected in children by constant sneezing and nasal congestion, especially at night, heavy discharge from the nasal cavity, tearing and redness of the eyelids. Also observed connection with seasonality, contact with animals or the use of certain food products . There are also a number of features during treatment or during the period.
The therapeutic treatment regimen is selected by the doctor individually, taking into account the specifics of the disease.
Consequences if left untreated
It is important to note the relationship allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma. For long-term allergies without reception therapeutic agents bronchial patency indicators decrease, an increase in specific immunoglobulin type E is observed.
In patients long time suffering from pathology paranasal sinuses and nose in many cases asthma develops.
Attention! To prevent the development of bronchial asthma, it is very important to use timely therapy for patients with allergic rhinitis.
Among others, one can highlight a violation of the trophism of the nasal mucosa, which may result in the development of polyps.
When to see a doctor
You should consult a doctor as soon as you notice signs allergic rhinitis.
You should not self-medicate, because some antihistamines have a whole series contraindications; in addition, it is important to identify specific irritants.
Useful video
You can learn more about allergic rhinitis: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment from the video:
Do not forget that timely treatment of allergies will significantly alleviate its symptoms, and when completing a course of therapy the disease may disappear forever.
Bronchial asthma is a chronic variable disease of the bronchi that may have different course, including heavy ones. But thanks to modern medical drugs and the right lifestyle can ensure that it does not limit everyday life.
Today, the chief freelance specialist in allergology and immunology of the Chelyabinsk Health Department, a doctor of the highest category, Irina Zherebtsova, answers our questions about this disease.
— Irina Aleksandrovna, bronchial asthma complicates the lives of quite a large number of people. The constant use of inhaled drugs, the inability to enjoy the smell of flowers “without looking back”, the fear of attacks... Is the increasing technogenicity of our world leading to an increase in this morbidity?
— Let's start with a definition: bronchial asthma (BA) is a chronic inflammatory disease respiratory tract, which is manifested by periodic attacks of difficulty breathing, suffocation, coughing. Choking attacks are the most specific sign asthma. It is widespread, with approximately 10 percent of the world's population suffering from this disease. In Russia it is somewhat less - about five percent, but we estimate the prevalence based on appeal, and not on research.
For this reason, two problems arise in the treatment of bronchial asthma: on the one hand, there is underdiagnosis of the disease, since patients do not come to us or their asthma occurs under the guise of chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, there is overdiagnosis, when patients with chronic bronchitis Asthma is diagnosed. At the same time, bronchial asthma is one of the few diseases for which mortality has decreased. This is confirmed by WHO data and statistics in our regions, including Chelyabinsk. This is due to modern methods treatment. Although the incidence of asthma itself is increasing, it is under control. The main goal in treatment is to achieve disease control.
- What exactly does this mean?
“This means that against the background of any therapy or even in its absence, the patient should not feel the severity of his disease, while using “first aid” drugs, as we call them, which relieve attacks of suffocation. Within the framework of international GINA programs The “Global strategy for the treatment and prevention of bronchial asthma”, which appeared in Russia in 1993, approaches to the treatment and prevention of bronchial asthma are regularly reviewed around the world based on the latest achievements in the field of medicine and pharmacology. The main role in preventing exacerbations of the disease is given to inhaled corticosteroids.
— Still, asthma is mostly allergic in nature?
- By international classification There are allergic, non-allergic and mixed forms of this disease. Non-allergic bronchial asthma is dealt with by pulmonologists, we deal with allergic forms. When diagnosing newly diagnosed asthma, consultation with an allergist is required. Currently, GINA-2014 has changed the definition of asthma, emphasizing that it is a variable disease, highlighting other forms of asthma in combination with pathology and conditions, for example: asthma and obesity, late-onset asthma, etc. These options are highlighted in order to more accurately select individual therapy for our patients.
— What is the essence of treating bronchial asthma?
— The main method of treating bronchial asthma is inhaled corticosteroids. Our preparations do not contain sex hormones, as many patients think, but adrenal hormones, and in doses measured in micrograms. I note that the dose of tablets is usually measured in milligrams or even grams, and the tablets work on almost everything internal organs, and inhaled drugs act on the bronchial mucosa, their absorption into the blood is much less than when using tablets. We have been treating patients with these inhalation drugs for forty years. During this time, their high effectiveness as anti-inflammatory drugs and safety have been proven; they have practically no side effects; they are prescribed to children from the age of two.
Complex therapy involves the use of other drugs. The duration of treatment is from three months to a year, the doctor determines the timing individually. Symptomatic treatment consists of the use of drugs that relieve asthma attacks, and certain groups of patients use them. However, if you use only such drugs and do not treat the disease itself, and bronchial asthma develops very slowly, then you can end up with a change in the structure of the respiratory tract by cellular level, and then we won’t be able to help. It is quite possible not to bring the disease to such a state by contacting a specialist in time and receiving full course treatment.
— Can only an allergist make a diagnosis and prescribe appropriate therapy? However, it is not always possible to immediately get an appointment with him.
— The diagnosis of “bronchial asthma” can be made by a general practitioner, as well as prescribed necessary treatment. Allergists and pulmonologists take care of patients who do not respond well to standard therapy. At the same time, the standard is, of course, not just one medicine; we have national recommendations, and therapists have sufficient knowledge to understand the clinic and navigate the prescriptions.
Of course, the therapist will refer the patient to an allergist or pulmonologist, and if necessary, further examination will be carried out. In general, as I already said, we take upon ourselves the first identified allergy. The patient is observed with us for 3 - 5 years, and if the dynamics are positive, the methods and means of treatment have been worked out, he remains under the supervision of a therapist. All children with bronchial asthma are observed by a pediatric allergist.
- Is there a predisposition to bronchial asthma Who can be classified as at risk?
— Allergic bronchial asthma has genetic predisposition, but, in addition, there are also exogenous factors - these are factors environment. People are at greater risk work activity which is associated with hazardous industries, smoking. There are age-related characteristics in the course of the disease. For example, broncho-obstructive syndrome, which appears in childhood, may disappear with age, and then the diagnosis of asthma is inappropriate.
— How does bronchial asthma begin?
“Most often it begins with rhinitis - in 90 percent of cases, but often people themselves are treated with all kinds of drops, do not come to us, and after five years they develop asthma. Therefore, the first preventive measure is timely treatment of the nose. All our prescriptions, including allergen-specific immunotherapy, are aimed at preventing the development of bronchial asthma. It has been proven: if you treat rhinitis, there will be no asthma. The main symptom of bronchial asthma is also the increased sensitivity of the bronchi to any irritant. Contact with allergens plays a leading role in the exacerbation of allergic bronchial asthma.
— Is identifying the source of the allergy the main thing?
— Yes, our task is to identify the source, but allergy examinations acute period we don't. During the period of exacerbation, standard treatment of allergic or Not allergic asthma. The diagnosis of allergic asthma is confirmed by the determination of specific immunoglobulins “E”. An allergen that gets into the bronchi comes into contact with it, which causes a chain of reactions and an attack of suffocation. The allergen can be determined in two ways - skin allergy tests, which are carried out in allergy clinics, or advanced laboratory tests, which, if necessary, we recommend that patients do.
— Is bronchial asthma treatable? complete cure?
- No, this is a chronic diagnosis. But asthma can be controlled with long periods remission. There are age-related characteristics of allergic asthma, for example, in childhood a boy was sick, by the age of 15 - 17 he feels great, but he will not be accepted into the army with such a diagnosis. And this is justified: when increased load either in extreme situation- stress, pungent odor- this one young man an attack of bronchial asthma may develop.
With age, the diagnosis does not go away and remains lifelong. The course of asthma may vary, but the increased sensitivity of the bronchi in such patients persists throughout their lives. Exacerbations in 50 percent of cases occur due to respiratory viral infection, contact with allergens and so-called triggers - this is our atmosphere, strong odors, smoking, stress.
— What other symptoms may indicate an incipient disease?
- If rhinitis appears and a person puts drops in his nose every day or does it at least twice a week in order to sleep peacefully, this is already bad diagnostic sign, such rhinitis may be a harbinger of asthma. If when going out into the cold, after laughing, in contact with strong odors a cough appears, and this becomes a system, then there is also a reason to consult a specialist. Such a reason is a prolonged cough that does not go away within a month after a cold.
— And if there is a reaction to contact with animals, can this also indicate the onset of the disease?
“This may be a reaction to a specific allergen, and if contact is excluded, then the reaction will disappear. These are the easiest forms that may not require specific treatment, the main thing is to remove the source of the allergy.
— What is important for asthmatics to remember?
— Lead a lifestyle so as not to aggravate the disease - avoid contact with allergens, prevent ARVI, including through vaccination, follow doctor’s prescriptions for taking medications. And then the disease will not cause big problems.
Medicines for bronchial asthma are potent medications used only with the knowledge of the attending physician. Exists great variety medications, the most popular of which are antihistamines, inhalers that relieve acute attacks and inflammatory processes, antileukotriene drugs, expectorants, and immunomodulators.
Antihistamines prescribed for asthmatics
Among such medications, representatives of the second and third generation of antihistamines are most often used:
- Claritin;
- Zyrtec;
- Gistalong;
- Telfast;
- Cetirizine.
Claritin is one of the first choice drugs in the treatment of asthma. The remedy is different high efficiency and low risk of side effects.
Tablets for bronchial asthma are intended for adults and patients over 3 years of age. The syrup is used in the treatment of diseases in young children. After entering the body, the drug causes relaxation of bronchial smooth muscles, thereby significantly reducing the symptoms of asthma. Claritin is taken once a day. Single dose determined by the weight and age of the patient. The duration of therapy is determined by the attending physician.
Zyrtec helps reduce bronchospasms. Tablets are taken from the age of 6, 1-2 times a day in the dosage recommended by a specialist. The medicine in the form of drops is approved for use in children over 6 months. This form of medication is also taken no more than twice within 24 hours.
Gistalong is a tablet medicine for bronchial asthma prescribed to patients over 2 years of age. To normalize the patient’s condition, one use of the drug during the day is sufficient.
Telfast is used in the treatment of asthma that occurs in parallel with allergic rhinitis. The product can be taken from 12 years of age. Most often it is prescribed once a day.
Cetirizine is one of the medications for asthmatics that helps dilate the bronchi and relieve suffocation. The medication is prescribed with infancy, every 24 hours. This product helps reduce concentration, which requires increased caution when operating vehicles and various precision mechanisms.
Antihistamines of the second and third generation are included in the complex treatment regimen for bronchial asthma, and are also used for preventive purposes.
Effective inhalers
Among inhalation products that help with asthma, powder and liquid aerosols equipped with a dispenser are often used. To quickly relieve an attack, normalize breathing and relieve inflammation, use the most effective products:
- Salbutamol;
- Terbutaline;
- Flixotide;
- Beclomethasone;
- Atrovent;
- Fluticasone.
Salbutamol is equally effective in relieving bronchial spasms in children over 2 years of age and adults; it is used for various forms asthma. The product is sprayed into oral cavity at the first sign of an attack. The frequency of its use should be determined by a specialist depending on the characteristics of the disease.
Terbutaline is intended for the relief and prevention of asthma attacks in patients of various ages. In severe cases, the drug is inhaled several times at 6-hour intervals. To prevent pathology, it is enough to use the medicine every 6 hours.
Flixotide is used to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses of bronchial asthma, and is often included in the basic therapy of the disease. Inhalations are performed in the morning and evening time days in dosage, indicated by the doctor, and depending on the severity of the disease. After the patient's condition improves, the dose is gradually reduced to the minimum. Flixotide is a drug that requires long-term use– from 3 to 6 months
Beclomethasone is created on the basis of hormones. The product helps reduce bronchial hyperactivity and swelling epithelial tissue, improved function external respiration, thanks to which it is possible to effectively stop an attack of bronchial asthma. This medication is prescribed to asthmatics over 6 years of age.
The product is sprayed into each nostril three to four times a day.. The dosage specified in the instructions for use can be adjusted by the doctor.
The asthma medicine Atrovent can be used in patients over 6 years of age. To improve the condition, 2 sprays of aerosol per day are enough.
Fluticasone is approved for use from 4 years of age. The drug helps relieve inflammation that develops in bronchial asthma. The spray is used twice a day in the dosage indicated by a specialist.
Particularly in demand among patients with bronchial asthma pocket inhalers. It is convenient to use such tools for self-removal attack.
Glucocorticosteroids
Glucocorticosteroids (ICS) are often included in basic therapy bronchial asthma, primarily during exacerbations of the pathology. A popular drug used orally, intramuscularly and intravenously is Prednisolone.
The first stage of treatment takes place with the appointment high doses medication, as a result of which it is possible to achieve the following results:
- reduce the frequency of attacks;
- reduce the severity of the disease;
- bring lung function indicators closer to normal;
- minimize the risk of developing side effects from taking other medications.
Early use of Prednisolone blocks the development of the inflammatory process, as well as structural changes in the respiratory tract. Therapy with this drug is especially effective in children. The result of using the drug is sharp decline symptoms of bronchial asthma.
Among the glucocorticosteroids produced in the form of aerosols, powder inhalers are used for the treatment of asthma, as well as solutions for inhalation through a nebulizer:
- Budesonide;
- Fluticasone propionate;
- Pulmicort Turbuhaler;
- Flunisolide.
The use of corticosteroids should only be done with the knowledge of the attending physician. Illiterate use of medications can lead to overdose, which can be fatal.
Antileukotriene drugs for the treatment of bronchial asthma
Antileukotriene drugs are a new generation of drugs used to relieve inflammation and dilation of the bronchi in asthmatics of all ages. This type of medicine is available in tablet forms.
The list of the best includes:
- Akolat (zafirlukast);
- Singulair (montelukast);
- Pranlukast (Ultair).
The use of Akolat provides effective prevention of attacks and maintenance therapy of asthma. This product is well tolerated by adults and children and rarely causes digestive disorders or headaches. The medicine significantly weakens the symptoms of the disease and reduces the need for bronchodilators. Tablets are approved for use from 12 years of age. They are drunk twice a day in individual dosages.
Singulair is prescribed when the patient reaches the age of 6 years. The product regulates the function of the bronchi, prevents the development of spasms and swelling, and normalizes mucus secretion. The effect of using the tablets is maintained throughout the day, so a single dose of the medication every 24 hours is sufficient.
Pranlukast is an asthma drug that has pronounced bronchodilator activity, providing effective prevention of bronchospasm. This remedy is taken once a day, shortly before bedtime.
Taking new generation drugs for several months significantly reduces the intensity of night and daytime attacks in asthmatics, reduces the need to take large amounts of medications, and improves performance bronchial obstruction. Many experts recommend using them as first choice in treatment mild degree pathology.
Expectorants
Expectorant drugs are indicated for use in case of exacerbation of the disease, accompanied by an increased content of viscous substances in the bronchial tract. thick mucus
and impairment of proper respiratory activity. Some of them are provided in government medical institutions for free.
In order to force the removal of accumulated secretions, they resort to prescribing medications from the list given below:
- Bromhexine;
- Lazolvan;
- Fluditek;
- Medovent.
ACC can be used in patients over 14 years of age. The drug is available in granules for the preparation of a suspension for oral and intravenous administration. soluble tablets. Reception medicine for asthmatics, it is carried out up to 3 times a day, after a doctor’s prescription. During the period of therapy, it is important to be regularly monitored by a specialist, since in patients with a hyperreactive bronchial system this drug can provoke allergic reactions in the form of bronchospasm.
Bromhexine tablets are taken two or three times a day. The product allows you to reduce the viscosity of bronchial secretions after 3-4 days of use.
Lazolvan is a powerful mucolytic and expectorant with antioxidant properties and a low degree of toxicity. For asthma this product can be prescribed in various forms - syrup, tablets, oral solution. It is used three times a day in a dose appropriate to the patient’s age.
Fluditec can be used even during the neonatal period. The medicine is available in syrup - separately for adults and children. The medication is taken three times a day after the required dosage has been clarified by a specialist.
Medovent is a preparation of ambroxol, has the following properties:
- mucolytic;
- expectorant;
- anti-inflammatory.
The medicine has an enveloping and secretolytic effect on the bronchi, helps to increase the synthesis of secretory immunoglobulin.
For bronchial asthma, Medovent tablets or capsules are used in adults, and an elixir in children. The medicine has a prolonged effect, so it is taken once a day in the dosage prescribed by the doctor.
There are medicines from Thailand in the form of capsules, created on the basis of natural ingredients. One of the most famous such remedies is Hanuman Prasan Gai. Hyssop is also used to treat asthma - medicinal plant, brought to the Russian Federation from the Mediterranean.
Immunomodulators in the treatment of asthmatics
The use of immunomodulators is resorted to in cases severe course bronchial asthma and the patient’s resistance to therapy traditional means. Similar drugs are approved for use in childhood, however, are not recommended during pregnancy and in the presence of hypersensitivity to their composition.
For most asthmatics, the use of:
- Timalina;
- T-activin;
- Alkimer;
- Timoptina.
Timalin and T-activin are solutions used for intramuscular injection. Injections with these medications are carried out once a day, shortly before bedtime. Average duration therapy lasts from 5 to 10 days.
Alkimer – biologically active additive, created on the basis of shark liver oil. The product is available in capsule form. With pronounced clinical symptoms immunodeficiency, adult patients take 1 unit three times a day for 3 weeks. To prevent weakening protective function The body needs 1-2 capsules per day. Repeated courses with Alkimer are recommended every 2-3 months.
Timoptin is available in the form of a lyophilized powder of 100 mcg, requiring dissolution in an isotonic solution. The course of treatment traditionally consists of 4-5 injections, performed at 4-day intervals. Treatment with this product should be carried out when constant monitoring indicators of immune status.
Bronchial asthma – serious illness, which must be treated strictly under the supervision of a specialist, who must prescribe a specific drug and recommended dosage depending on the age and condition of the patient.
Allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma are complex allergic lesions of the human body, which are characterized by the same location in the respiratory tract. Scientists have combined these two diseases into one model for study - atopic. The cause of these pathologies in most cases is the influence of exogenous allergens on human body. Considering these two diseases as a complex phenomenon, a small adjustment should be made: allergic rhinitis, or rather its long course, most often leads to asthmatic attacks (that is, to bronchial asthma). One pathology in in this case gives rise to the development of another. It's all due to an allergy to one or another phenomenon in the surrounding world. The term “exogenous” means factors influencing the occurrence of allergic rhinitis, as a precursor to bronchial asthma, that are initially located outside the human body.
The combination of these diseases is supported by the same symptoms, but to varying degrees their severity:
Allergic rhinitis, as a phenomenon preceding bronchial asthma, is an inflammatory process in the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, which causes changes in healthy breathing, runny nose, sneezing and itching of the entire affected area. The basis of this pathology is natural allergic reactions of the immediate type, with which the body responds to the ingress of allergens into it. These can be: vapors from fungal spores, plant pollen, dust, animal hair and other volatile substances. Low temperatures and strong odors can reinforce and enhance the effect of allergens. Classifying rhinitis, we can distinguish 2 types:
Among the main signs and symptoms of rhinitis are:
- itching in the nasal cavity, which is accompanied by a runny nose and congestion, as a result of its inflammation and swelling;
- redness of the membranes of the eye (often conjunctivitis);
- sneezing and frequent watery eyes.
Diagnostics of this disease V modern medicine carried out by undergoing rhinoscopy or testing for a particular allergen. The following types of medications help cure allergic rhinitis permanently or at least temporarily get rid of allergies:
- bromide-based nasal sprays, antihistamines, cromoglycic acid. They are able to reduce nasal congestion and clear breathing;
- Vasoconstrictor drugs also provide excellent relief from symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing and swelling of the nasal mucosa.
Bronchial asthma (bronchitis) is a severe form of inflammation of the respiratory tract. The basis of this process is the narrowing of the lumens in the bronchi and, as a result, a runny nose, cough, shortness of breath and the likelihood of asthma attacks.
Among the main reasons for the development of bronchial asthma are not only all kinds of allergies, but the following factors:
Among other processes leading to bronchial asthma are: poor nutrition, frequent stress, non-compliance with safety precautions when using detergents and various microorganisms that enter the nasal mucosa with air.
The main symptoms of bronchial asthma are:
- disturbances in the processes of reactivity of the bronchial tree;
- formation of mucosal blockage and, as a consequence, severe congestion nose, as well as congestion and blockages in the lumens of the bronchi;
- swelling of the bronchial walls leads to heavy breathing, wheezing, coughing and suffocation;
- Due to spasmodic contractions of the muscles of the bronchi, a person can suffocate, which is commonly called asthmatic suffocation.
This disease can be diagnosed from the patient’s verbal complaints, as well as during a series of examinations: picflowmetry and spirometry.
Therapy of bronchial asthma occurs through the use of a set of procedures, which are combined into such as:
- basic therapy;
- symptomatic therapy;
- use of drug treatment.
A prerequisite in any treatment is to eliminate the causes of the disease and prevent allergic rhinitis from occurring.
Relationship between allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma
The relationship between these two pathologies can be traced by comparing the following factors:
In any case, these two pathologies must be clearly diagnosed and treated immediately, since there is a high probability of the occurrence of chronic forms of these diseases leading to serious consequences and carries great danger for health.
Classification, symptoms and methods of treatment of allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by an irritating agent.
Classification
In the international classification (IBC 10), allergic rhinitis is classified as a disease of the respiratory system.
In the same classification, IBC 10 (tenth revision), the code for allergic rhinitis is J30. 1.
According to the 2001 WHO taxonomy, allergic rhinitis is classified according to the duration of symptoms:
Intermittent allergic rhinitis is characterized by a mild course. Total quantity The time of symptom onset per year does not exceed one month. The patient remains able to work and can engage in physical exercise.
Persistent allergic rhinitis is severe, with symptoms occurring for more than a month out of a year.
A severe form is considered a condition in which signs of allergic rhinitis are detected:
In the old classification there were:
- seasonal allergic rhinitis, periodic;
- permanent - lasting for years.
Seasonal rhinitis begins annually during the flowering of a plant to whose pollen the patient is allergic. Seasonal runny nose is also called hay fever.
If there are several allergens, the number of exacerbations increases, allergic rhinitis becomes chronic, intensifying during flowering.
With constant (year-round) allergic rhinitis, symptoms appear less violently than with seasonal runny nose. Allergens can be found in everyday life, at work, or in the environment.
The allergens are:
- external factors – chemical compounds, plant pollen, dust, molds that settle in air conditioners or flower pots, animal hair, fluff.
- internal factors– foci of infection in the body, intermediate metabolic products, medicines, vaccines.
Allergens can be bacteria - staphylococci, streptococci. Infectious allergic rhinitis is accompanied by the accumulation of eosinophils in the blood - blood cells high concentration which indicates an allergic reaction.
An attack of allergic rhinitis can be caused by heat or cold. The action of these irritants is accompanied by the release of substances that can cause allergies.
Acute allergic rhinitis is the same type of reaction as anaphylactic shock, hay fever, Quincke's edema, bronchial asthma, urticaria. It takes from minutes to several hours before the first symptoms appear after contact with the allergen.
Reasons
Allergic rhinitis is caused by an allergen – a compound to which the body is hypersensitive.
The presence of an allergen on the nasal mucosa causes the body to respond, causing an allergic runny nose.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis occur when hay fever - reactions to plant pollen. Attacks of hay fever are manifested by allergic rhinitis in combination with conjunctivitis, with severe forms hay fever complicated by bronchial asthma.
Characteristic symptoms of hay fever include increased body temperature, fatigue, and insomnia. If there are foci of chronic infection in the body, acute inflammation of the paranasal sinuses may occur.
Sometimes complications may arise from nervous system– arachnoiditis, auditory damage, optic nerve, encephalitis.
Attack seasonal allergies appears suddenly in the background full health during flowering and the spread of pollen in the air.
The patient develops severe itching in the nose, a violent attack of sneezing begins.
Repeated sneezing is accompanied by watery discharge, congestion, and breathing problems. Changes in the nasal mucosa cause changes in the eye mucosa. Watery eyes, redness, itching, burning in both eyes, and swelling of the eyelids are observed.
An attack of hay fever lasts about 3 hours; there are several attacks of varying intensity per day.
A serious condition is noted when symptoms of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the trachea and larynx appear. A patient with allergic rhinitis has a hoarse voice, cough, sputum production, and asthmatic syndrome.
Bronchial asthma is considered an extremely severe complication of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Patients with allergic rhinitis experience sensitivity to cold. Slight cooling of the hands and feet, drafts cause nasal congestion, headache, sleep disturbance, deterioration of sense of smell, dry mouth, sometimes shortness of breath with difficulty exhaling ( expiratory dyspnea).
A runny nose in winter is not always caused by an infection; it may well be a symptom of allergic rhinitis.
A prolonged runny nose leads to disturbances in the nasal mucosa. At this stage, vasoconstrictor drops practically cease to have an effect on the mucous membrane, nasal breathing constantly difficult, no sense of smell.
If left untreated, changes in the mucosa lead to the formation of polyps. Polyps most often arise in the maxillary cavity, from which they penetrate into the nasal passage. Polyps also form in both nasal passages, making breathing difficult.
This stage is characterized by constant disruption of nasal breathing and increased frequency of bronchial asthma attacks.
Interested in symptoms, treatment, causes vasomotor rhinitis? Detailed material in our article.
Allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma
A long-term focus of inflammation in the nasal mucosa causes inflammation of the bronchial mucosa. Bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis are of the same nature; these diseases are interrelated.
During treatment, the manifestations of the pathology of both allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma are eliminated in combination.
Diagnostics
When diagnosing allergic rhinitis, much attention is paid to collecting anamnesis, interviewing the patient, and the results of blood tests. The final diagnosis is established based on rhinoscopy and laboratory tests.
Laboratory tests include skin tests with standard antigens, as well as methods to determine the level of IgE.
To do this, tests are carried out:
The diagnosis is confirmed by examining smears of the nasal mucosa; in case of allergic rhinitis, accumulations are found in them mast cells, eosinophils, goblet cells.
CT scan shows thickened mucosa in the paranasal sinuses.
Treatment
Allergic rhinitis is treated in two ways:
- allergen-specific immunotherapy with increasing doses of the allergen, used in children;
- drug therapy – in the treatment of allergic rhinitis in children and adults.
For the treatment of allergic rhinitis the following is used:
- antihistamines;
- glucocorticoids;
- vasoconstrictor drops;
- Cromons
Antihistamines
Pharmacopoeia of allergic rhinitis includes antihistamines local remedies and for oral administration.
Drugs of this drug group eliminate the symptoms of nasal congestion, sneezing, and discharge from the nasal passages 15-30 minutes after use.
Antihistamines are allowed for treatment:
- first generation– clemastine, promethazine, chloropyramine.
- second generation– ebastine, loratidine, acrivastine.
- third generation– fexofenadine, desloratadine.
Good results are observed when treated with drugs from the second group. Antihistamines the second generation has a long-lasting effect and does not cause drowsiness, dry mucous membranes, or difficulty urinating. They recommend Zyrtec, Claritin, Telfast.
The use of ebastine is effective; it is taken once every 24 hours as the main therapy. Ebastine tablets also help with acute attacks, quickly relieving the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
The most powerful antihistamine Today, desloratadine is considered a third-generation antihistamine. It begins to act 30 minutes after administration, the effect lasts for a day.
Local nasal drops for allergic rhinitis - azelastine, levocabastine. The effect of using local antihistamines is observed 10 minutes after application.
Glucocorticosteroids
Drugs in this group eliminate congestion, cope with discharge, sneezing, and itching. They begin to act 6 hours after administration.
TO effective means for allergic rhinitis include fluticasone, prednisolone, mometasone, beclomethasone, hydrocortisone. The action of the drugs is aimed at reducing swelling, suppressing allergic activity, and helping with allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma.
Sprays containing active substances fluticasone, beclomethasone, mometasone, they have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Glucocorticosteroids are used with caution and only under medical supervision due to high risk side effects.
It is impossible to treat young children, especially infants, for allergic rhinitis with glucocorticosteroids without the supervision of a doctor. At long-term treatment This group of drugs is used to reduce the growth rate of young children.
The drugs of choice for allergic rhinitis are Nasonex, Flixonase, Nazarel, Nasobek.
Cromony
Cromones – compounds that stabilize cell membranes, blocking the cellular response to antigen. Medicines in this group - cromoglycate, ketotifen - are approved for use in the treatment of allergic rhinitis in pregnant women and young children.
Cromones are approved for the prevention of severe forms of allergic rhinitis; the drugs have no side effects or complications.
Vasoconstrictor drops
You can quickly get rid of the manifestations of allergic rhinitis with the help of vasoconstrictor sprays and drops. Xylometazoline, naphazoline, tetrizoline, oxymetazoline begin to act within 5-10 minutes after instillation into the nose or use as a spray.
Vasoconstrictor drugs almost instantly restore breathing through the nose, but their effect does not exceed 6 hours, which necessitates repeated use.
Instant relief from allergic rhinitis lasts 10 days. If you use the drops for longer than this period, changes begin in the mucous membrane, causing persistent swelling - “rebound” syndrome.
For severe forms of the runny nose, ipratropium bromide, mucolytics acetylcysteine, carbocysteine are used.
Physiotherapy
- Electrophoresis of histoglobulin, calcium chloride, diphenhydramine;
- ultrasound;
- cryotherapy.
Inhalations with a nebulizer
Treatment with a nebulizer allows dosed and precise action on the mucous membranes of the nose and nasopharynx.
With this method of treatment there are no side effects, the maximum result is achieved in the most short time, which is especially important in acute conditions.
To treat allergic rhinitis by inhalation, purchase ready-made pharmaceutical solutions according to a doctor's prescription.
Traditional methods of treating any allergy are dangerous due to their unpredictability.
Complications
Complications of allergic rhinitis include polyposis and bronchial asthma.
Prevention
Prevention of exacerbations of allergic rhinitis consists of following doctor’s orders, following a diet, and eliminating contact with the allergen.
Forecast
The prognosis for allergic rhinitis is positive; the disease does not progress with adequate therapy.
Is it normal to develop a runny nose during asthma?
A runny nose is not a constant companion to bronchial asthma. However, many patients report it as the main symptom that occurs with every asthmatic attack. Most often this occurs with the allergic type of asthma.
Runny nose and sinusitis with asthma
Allergies to certain irritants manifest themselves in different ways, and one of the ways this manifests itself is rhinitis. This is explained by the fact that when an irritating substance enters the respiratory tract, irritation occurs in the mucous membranes of not only the bronchi, but also the nasal sinuses. As a result, mucus accumulates in both places.
Another case when asthma and runny nose can be combined is the development of an infectious disease. Bronchial asthma cannot be cured completely; no one is immune from colds, and most of them are accompanied by a runny nose.
The manifestation of this symptom at the time of exacerbation is due to irritation of the respiratory tract, which is provoked by bacteria or viruses. As a result, a runny nose joins the symptoms of an asthmatic attack.
Another factor is exposure to cold. Hypothermia affects the mucous membranes, causing increased mucus production. In addition, the cold has a traumatic effect on the bronchi, which causes them to spasm. The result is the simultaneous manifestation of asthmatic symptoms and rhinitis.
There is also a situation when a patient develops simultaneous allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma. These two diseases are the most common diseases allergic type, and their joint course is not at all uncommon.
In any of these cases, patients with bronchospasm, in addition to the main symptoms, may mention a runny nose. In some cases, it is one of the signs of impending bronchospasm, which can help prevent another asthma attack.
The presence of a runny nose in asthma is often a sign of developing complications. If treatment of the disease is ineffective, nasal congestion is added to its main manifestations. If it is not corrected, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses may develop, which is called sinusitis.
Sinusitis and asthma often occur together, and both can affect each other. To avoid deterioration caused by such exposure, you need to take necessary measures, and for this you should find out what sinusitis is.
The mucous membranes of the nose are also prone to inflammatory processes due to external irritants (as are the bronchi). This is the essence this complication. The following factors can cause it:
- colds;
- unfavorable environmental conditions;
- allergens;
- cold;
- ozone.
When the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses becomes inflamed, increased production mucus that accumulates in the axillary cavities. This provokes severe pain in the forehead, neck, back of the head, ears, upper jaw and around the eyes.
In addition, the following symptoms are observed with sinusitis:
- cough;
- fever;
- weakness;
- decreased performance.
How to avoid possible consequences?
If sinusitis is not treated, it can develop into chronic form, which cannot be eliminated for several months. This disease can significantly complicate the course of bronchial asthma. If you have sinusitis asthmatic symptoms are intensifying. In addition, there is a risk of more severe exacerbations of bronchial asthma. This means that with sinusitis, the disease progresses at a faster rate.
Increasing asthma, in turn, complicates the process of treating sinusitis, which increases the likelihood of its chronicity. Accordingly, this harmful interaction between the two ailments will be prolonged.
Consequences further development bronchial asthma pose a serious danger because they can cause pathological changes in many organs and systems due to oxygen starvation. Therefore, it is important to avoid circumstances that contribute to its progression, or to promptly neutralize their effects.
Features of treatment
Therapeutic measures must take into account the characteristics of both diseases, as well as the individual characteristics of the patient, such as a tendency to allergic reactions, working and living conditions, etc. Independent selection of drugs can be dangerous. Doctors usually prescribe:
If there is a secondary bacterial infection, which may develop due to sinusitis, the patient may require antibiotics (Ceftriaxone, Cefixime).
It is also acceptable to use simple home remedies - rinsing the nose with saline solutions or steam inhalations. But before using them, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Also, if there are defects in the nasal canal, it makes sense surgical intervention to prevent the development of chronic sinusitis.
Preventive measures
In order to avoid a runny nose and associated complications, you need to follow the same preventive measures as provided for bronchial asthma. This:
These rules will help not only shorten the duration of the disease, but also prevent its occurrence.
A runny nose is not considered one of the main symptoms of asthma. Most often it occurs as a complication that aggravates clinical picture. Also, its appearance may be due to allergic reaction. To avoid deterioration, you need to contact a specialist who will help identify the causes of this phenomenon and prescribe appropriate treatment.
