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Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, & Relief

08/27/2025

If you’re one of the millions of Americans suffering from sneezing, a stuffy nose, and itchy eyes, you may have allergic rhinitis—commonly known as hay fever. This condition affects 1 in 5 people. Unlike the common cold, allergic rhinitis is not contagious but can significantly affect your quality of life, especially in children and young adults.

This guide details the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for allergic rhinitis, along with expert tips for relief.

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction.  It occurs when your immune system overreacts to harmless airborne particles (allergens). These allergens trigger symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. It’s a chronic condition that often develops in childhood or adolescence, and symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated.

What Causes Allergic Rhinitis?

The primary causes of allergic rhinitis involve two main factors:

1. Genetic Predisposition: A family history of allergies or asthma increases your chances of developing allergic rhinitis.
2. Exposure to Allergens: Repeated exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander can trigger allergic reactions.

Did You Know? Children in large families or those who attend daycare at an early age often have fewer allergies. This is due to early immune training that helps the body build defenses against common allergens.

Common Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can vary depending on the allergen and the season. Common signs include:

• Sneezing and Runny Nose: Frequent sneezing, nasal discharge, and congestion
• Nasal Congestion: A blocked or stuffy nose, especially during morning or night
• Itchy Eyes and Nose: Irritation around the eyes and nose, often accompanied by watery eyes
• Headaches: Sinus pressure causing mild to moderate headaches.
• Postnasal Drip: Mucus dripping down the back of the throat, often causing a sore throat

Symptoms in Children

In children, allergic rhinitis can lead to chronic nasal obstruction, which may become worse over time, causing:

• Mouth Breathing
• Snoring and Sleep Apnea
• Sleep Disorders: Insomnia, bed-wetting, and sleepwalking

These sleep issues can directly lead to behavioral changes, including:

• Poor attention span, irritability, and daytime sleepiness

Children with allergic rhinitis are also more prone to frequent ear infections, which tend to last longer than typical infections. Look for more information on our Patient Education Resources.

How Do I Know If It’s Allergies or a Cold?

Knowing whether you’re suffering from allergies or a common cold can be tricky. Here’s a quick guide to help you tell the difference:

Symptom	Allergic Rhinitis	Common Cold
Fever	No fever	Low-grade fever is possible
Itchy Eyes/Nose	Yes	Rarely
Mucus	Clear mucus	Thick yellow/green mucus
Duration	Lasts weeks/months	Resolves in 7-10 days

 

If your symptoms last for more than a week or two, it’s likely allergic rhinitis rather than a cold.

Treatment Options for Allergic Rhinitis

Avoidance Strategies

Preventing exposure to allergens is a foundational step in managing allergic rhinitis. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and other leading allergy organizations, the following environmental controls may help reduce symptoms:

• Use HEPA filters and encase mattresses and pillows in dust mite-proof covers.
• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and monitor local pollen forecasts.
• Bathe pets weekly and keep them out of bedrooms to reduce pet dander exposure.

Medications

• Nasal steroids – Among the most effective treatments for congestion
• Antihistamines – Effectively control sneezing and itching
• Saline rinses – A safe and natural option for daily nasal irrigation

Advanced Options

• Allergy shots (Immunotherapy): A 3–5-year treatment for long-term relief through gradual exposure to allergens
• Sublingual tablets: Dissolvable tablets placed under the tongue that work similarly to allergy shots

Can Allergic Rhinitis Cause Other Health Problems?

Yes! If untreated, allergic rhinitis can lead to:

• Chronic sinus infections: Ongoing sinus inflammation and pressure
• Sleep apnea: Nasal obstruction can interfere with sleep, leading to breathing problems during sleep.
• Worsened asthma: Over 50% of people with allergic rhinitis also suffer from asthma.
• Decreased performance: Fatigue and sleep disruptions can affect school or work performance.

How Long Does Allergic Rhinitis Last?

Allergic rhinitis can be:

• Seasonal: Triggered by seasonal allergens like pollen, it can last for weeks or months.
• Perennial: Caused by year-round allergens (dust, mold, pet dander) and can persist throughout the year.

Find Allergy Relief in New Jersey

If your allergies are affecting your day-to-day life, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Coastal Ear, Nose, and Throat offers comprehensive allergy testing and personalized treatment plans for both seasonal and environmental allergies. Get relief from allergic rhinitis and improve your quality of life with expert care from our team.

Schedule your appointment online today for a thorough allergy evaluation and treatment plan.