Rhinitis, sinusitis and allergic conjunctivitis

The allergic rhinitis is the most common. Affects 2.5 million Portuguese, and more than one-third also has asthma. It is common in children and underdiagnosed. 'When we neglect complaints, leaves a door open to the lung, which can trigger or worsen asthma', warns Morais de Almeida. Is associated with sinusitis and allergic conjunctivitis.

Symptoms: In rhinitis, the most common are: nasal obstruction, itching, sneezing and dripping nose, sleep disturbance and fatigue. In sinusitis, there is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa, which makes the drainage of mucus. In conjunctivitis, the eyes become red, watery, swollen and itchy. It is triggered by dust mites, pet dander and pollens. Is associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis, the symptoms overlap.

Diagnosis: Applies to rhinitis and sinusitis symptoms of the analysis by examining the inside of the nose, looking for typical changes, as a pale mucosa. They can do skin tests and blood tests to check the level of specific antibodies, and which also take place in case of conjunctivitis.

Treatment: When rhinitis and sinusitis are intermittent, might be sufficient to use an antihistamine, which relieves symptoms. Persistent forms are treated with nasal steroids, anti - histamines oral or nasal. Vaccines reduce the reactivity of the bronchi. In seasonal rhinitis, vaccinate themselves before the pollen season. Conjunctivitis is treated with oral antihistamines and eye drops. Avoid contact lenses.