Allergic rhinitis is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is an inflammation of the lining of the nose due to an allergic reaction to a substance, such as pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, and itching of the nose, eyes, or throat.
Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis
The treatment of allergic rhinitis depends on the type and severity of the symptoms. For mild to moderate symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants may be sufficient. For more severe cases, prescription medications such as nasal steroids may be necessary.
Another form of treatment for allergic rhinitis is allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. Allergen immunotherapy involves injecting small doses of allergens into the body over a period of time so that the body can gradually build up a tolerance. This treatment is usually used for people with severe allergies that are not responding to other forms of treatment.
How Long Does it Take to Treat Allergic Rhinitis?
The length of time it takes to treat allergic rhinitis depends on the type and severity of the symptoms, as well as the type of treatment being used. For mild to moderate symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants may provide relief within a few days. For more severe cases, prescription medications may take several weeks to months to provide relief.
Allergen immunotherapy can take up to three years to be effective, with the patient receiving a series of injections over that period of time. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions and to continue to take medications as prescribed during this time.
In general, the longer a person has had allergic rhinitis, the longer it may take to treat it. However, with the right treatment and medications, relief from allergic rhinitis can be achieved in a relatively short period of time.