In autumn, the air becomes dry and there is an increase in the number of allergenic particles in the air. People who come into contact with these allergens are prone to allergic rhinitis, which is often mistaken for a common cold. So, what should allergic rhinitis patients do?
【Allergic Rhinitis Patients Should Be Cautious with Cold Medications】
Some symptoms of allergic rhinitis are similar to those of a common cold, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, or a runny nose. Many patients mistake these symptoms for a cold and self-medicate with cold medications. However, according to Dr. Liu Tianrun, allergic rhinitis and the common cold are completely different conditions.
Allergic rhinitis is mainly characterized by local symptoms in the nose, while the symptoms of a cold usually include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, joint pain, sore throat, and other systemic symptoms. In addition, allergic rhinitis is chronic and recurrent, with symptoms recurring upon exposure to allergens, although it may resolve in a few days. On the other hand, a cold usually has a sudden onset and lasts for 1-2 weeks, added Dr. Liu Tianrun.
Regarding the use of cold medications by allergic rhinitis patients, Dr. Liu Tianrun explained that some patients may experience relief of symptoms when taking cold medications because many of these medications on the market are combination preparations, containing ingredients that are effective for allergic rhinitis.
Pseudoephedrine in certain combination preparations can relieve nasal congestion, while medications containing loratadine have antipruritic and antiallergic effects, making patients feel that their nasal passages are clear and their symptoms are relieved. However, it is worth mentioning that some cold medications contain antipyretic and analgesic components, and some patients often take them to relieve symptoms during an allergic rhinitis attack. Although taking cold medications may have some effect on the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, the potential adverse reactions should not be ignored. Therefore, if a patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing during the high season for allergic rhinitis, they should understand the cause before taking medication and avoid using medication recklessly for convenience.
【Pregnant Allergic Rhinitis Patients Should Be Cautious with Medications】
Pregnant women, as a special group, must exercise extreme caution when it comes to medication. Dr. Liu Tianrun stated that currently, most drugs have not been proven to be safe for human fetuses. Therefore, it is not recommended for pregnant women to take medication when symptoms are not severe, especially during the first three months of pregnancy.
Pregnant women should avoid contact with allergens and drink plenty of water during dry seasons to replenish body fluids. If allergic rhinitis symptoms occur, pregnant women can use nasal irrigation to reduce the concentration of allergens in the nasal cavity and alleviate symptoms.
【What Should Rhinitis Patients Pay Attention to in Daily Life?】
Rhinitis is mostly caused by catching a cold, so it is important to strengthen physical exercise and enhance resistance. Activities like morning runs, swimming, cold showers, and washing the face with cold water can all improve physical fitness and increase the body's tolerance to cold. Traditional Chinese herbs can be used for prevention, such as drinking ginger and brown sugar water after catching a chill to expel the "cold evil" in a timely manner.
During the flu season, herbal remedies such as Platycodon grandiflorum, Saposhnikovia divaricata, and Isatis tinctoria can be used. It is best to avoid staying outdoors for too long between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., which is the peak time for pollen dispersal. Maintain indoor air humidity or use air purifiers to prevent the nose from becoming too dry. Change and clean bedsheets and covers in a timely manner to prevent dust mites and their secretions from triggering allergic rhinitis.
The key to preventing allergic rhinitis is to minimize exposure to allergens and be cautious in daily life.
