Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the inside of the nose caused by an allergen, such as pollen, dust, mould, or skin flakes from certain animals.

Most people with allergic rhinitis have mild symptoms that can be treated easily. These symptoms often start soon after you come into contact with what you’re allergic to.

These symptoms might include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy nose
• Blocked or runny nose

Some people get allergic rhinitis only for a few months due to seasonal allergies. Others might have it all year round.

Usually, the symptoms are mild and can be treated easily. But for some, the symptoms can become more severe and interfere with sleep and daily life. Symptoms usually get better over time, but the condition usually doesn’t go away completely.

You should see your doctor if the symptoms are affecting your sleep or daily activities or if they’re affecting how you do at work or school. Your doctor might also want to do allergy testing if they’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms.

Allergic rhinitis occurs when your immune system reacts to an allergen as if it were harmful. This causes the inside of your nose to swell and produce too much mucus. Common causes include pollen (hay fever), mould, dust mites, and animal skin flakes.

You can avoid what you’re allergic to and take over-the-counter medications to reduce symptoms. If that doesn’t help, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications.

Allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or year-round. Seasonal symptoms happen in spring, summer or early autumn. Year-round symptoms (perennial allergic rhinitis) might be caused by house dust or animal dander.