Test Your Knowledge

The histamine releases that occur as part of an allergic reaction can occur anywhere in the body. For this reason, allergic rhinitis is often accompanied by other conditions. These conditions are most likely to affect the functions of the nasal and sinus cavity where rhinitis symptoms persist. Conditions related to allergic rhinitis include:

• Chronic sinusitis. An inflammation of the lining of the sinus cavities that can develop if allergic rhinitis symptoms persist for several years.
  
  
• Allergic sinusitis.  Sinus cavity inflammation that is triggered by an allergic reaction.
  
  

  

• Nasal polyps. Small growths in the lining of the nose that can develop and restrict normal breathing and sense of smell.
  
  
• Rhinosinusitis. An inflammation of the paranasal sinuses (which are adjacent to the nose and lined with mucous membranes) that occurs with rhinitis. The condition frequently occurs in patients with non-seasonal allergies and in those with moderate to severe asthma.
  
  
• Allergic conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the tissue lining the inside of the eyelid and caused by an allergic reaction. This condition can occur both seasonally and perennially.
  

  

• Allergic bronchitis. Inflammation of the lung’s airways (bronchial tubes) that is brought on by an allergic reaction. The condition results in a persistent cough that produces large amounts of phlegm.

Asthma (a chronic inflammation of the body's bronchial tissues) and eczema (an inflammatory skin disease) are also related to allergic rhinitis. People with these conditions are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis. In addition, uncontrolled allergic rhinitis may lead to a worsening of asthma.