Test Your Knowledge

Allergic rhinitis involves swelling in the sinuses and in the passage leading from the throat to the middle ear. Because of this, the most common symptom associated with allergic rhinitis is frequent and prolonged sneezing. Other common symptoms may include:

• Itchy and runny nose
• Congestion
• Redness, swelling and itching of the eyes
• Itchy and sore throat
• Coughing
• Ear infections and sinus infections
• Postnasal drip
• Fatigue
• Facial pressure and pain

These symptoms often vary in severity depending on the individual and the environment. However, they will usually last throughout an entire season (with seasonal allergic rhinitis) or throughout the entire year (with perennial allergic rhinitis). The most severe cases are considered extremely uncomfortable and can make it difficult to carry out even everyday tasks.

It is important to note that symptoms occur less often in infants and young children. When they do occur, symptoms may cause the child to become irritable and interfere with feeding.