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Allergic rhinitis - Management
How should I assess allergic rhinitis?
- For symptoms of asthma and manage accordingly. For further information see the CKS topic on Asthma.
- The most likely allergen causing allergic rhinitis:
- The responsible allergen may be identifiable from the history — see Diagnosis.
- Allergy testing to confirm the responsible allergen is indicated when burdensome allergen avoidance strategies, such as house dust mite avoidance measures, are being considered.
- Factors influencing the choice of drug treatment to control allergic rhinitis.
- Ask about:
- Frequency and persistence of symptoms.
- Subjective distress caused by symptoms and their adverse effect on aspects of daily life, such as sleep, recreation, and work.
- Associated allergic conjunctivitis.
- Personal preference for oral or intranasal treatments and the effectiveness of any previous treatments for allergic rhinitis.
- Examine the nose if nasal blockage is a problem. Examine for nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum and mucosal swelling.
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