Nasal Allergy

I am suffering from severe sneezing problem. It starts mostly at mornings and continues the whole day with 100-120 sneezes. Whitish watery mucus flows constantly. Eyes and nose go red. This occurs almost twice a week. I cannot bear strong air entering my nose (as in while driving a car). The only temporary cure I could find is a good sleep. I consulted a general physician and he diagnosed some sort of allergy which might lead to serious lung problems in the future like asthma. He has prescribed Azelastine Hyrdocholride and Fluticasone Propionate - Azeflo Nasal Spray for 2 months. I seek further expert advice. Kindly help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

From the symptoms that you have mentioned,it sounds like hay fever or allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is a collection of symptoms, predominantly in the nose and eyes, caused by airborne particles of dust, dander, or plant pollens in people who are allergic to these substances.

Pls contact an allergy specialist and get skin tests like skin ***** test or blood tests like RAST done to confirm the allergen to which you are allergic. You can take OTC antihistaminics like benadryl,zyrtec or Claritin.
You can also use nasal corticosteroid sprays like nasocort or flonase. Decongestants may also be helpful in reducing symptoms such as nasal congestion, but they should not be used for long periods. Cromolyn sodium is a nasal spray (Nasalcrom) for treating hay fever.If the symptoms are intense then you can go in for immunotherapy
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.Warm regards