Clinical features: Allergic rhinitis is caused by sensitivity reaction in the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa e.g. due to pollen, animal hair or feathers. Is characterized by nasal obstruction, bouts of sneezing and excess nasal discharge which is usually watery but occasionally think and mucoid.

Treatment guidelines

Attempts should be made to identify the responsible allergen - which should then be avoided whenever possible. Desensitization for specific allergens should be done.

Ephedrine (O) give 15-30 mg every 8 hours

or

Chlorpheniramine (O) give 4 mg every 8 hours

or

Promethazine (O) give 25 mg every 12 hours

For patients unresponsive to antihistamines

Prednisolone (O) give 15-30 mg every 12 hours and then 'gradual tapering is recommended.

Children

Ephedrine (O) 0.5 mg/kg body weight every 8 hours

or

Chlorpheniramine (O) give 0.1 mg/kg body weight every 8 hours

or

Promethazine (O) give (O) 0.25-0.5 mg/kg body weight give every 12 hours

If unresponsive to antihistamines give

Prednisolone (O) as for adult dose above.

Surgery is indicated in the presence of polyps and drainage of purulent sinuses.