Allergic rhinitis occurs as a result of the immune system’s overreaction to allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, animal dander, and mold. The most common symptoms are:

• Nasal discharge and congestion

• Sneezing

• Itching in the nose and eyes

• Watery eyes

• Postnasal drip

Allergic Rhinitis Treatment Methods

1. Protection from Allergens (Basic Treatment)

• Using bed covers against house dust mites

• Keeping windows closed during pollen seasons

• Limiting contact with pets

• Staying away from cigarette smoke

• Keeping room humidity at 40–50% levels

2. Medication Therapy

Antihistamines

• Reduces sneezing, itching, and nasal discharge

• Loratadine, Desloratadine, Cetirizine, Fexofenadine

Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays

• The most effective treatment method

• Reduces nasal congestion and inflammation

• Mometasone, Fluticasone, Budesonide

Saline (Sea Water) Sprays

• Cleans the inside of the nose

• Increases the effectiveness of medications

• Can be used daily and safely

Decongestants (Short-Term)

• Clears nasal congestion

• Should not be used for longer than 3–5 days

3. Immunotherapy (Vaccine Treatment)

• The immune response is regulated by giving controlled doses of the allergen

• Applied sublingually (SLIT) or subcutaneously (SCIT)

• Recommended for patients with moderate-to-severe symptoms and resistance to medication

• Provides long-term permanent benefits

4. Nasal Exosome Therapy (New Generation Approach) Nasal exosome applications, which have been in the research phase in recent years, aim to reduce inflammation in the nasal mucosa and support tissue repair.

• Evaluated as supportive in chronic allergic rhinitis

• Clinical studies on its immune-regulatory effects are ongoing

• Should be considered as complementary, not as a replacement for standard treatments

What Happens if Allergic Rhinitis is Not Treated?

• Chronic sinusitis

• Development of asthma

• Sleep disorders

• Problems with the sense of smell

• Serious decrease in quality of life

When Should a Doctor Be Consulted?

• If complaints last longer than 4 weeks

• If nasal congestion has become constant

• If there is no improvement despite medications

• If asthma symptoms accompany the condition