Allergic disorders

Question 1

Allergic rhinitis

Answer 1

Inflammatory disorder of nose

Becomes sensitised to allergens

Seasonal- same time every year

Perennial- throughout the year

Occupational- exposure to pathogens within the workplace

Question 2

Features of allergic rhinitis

Answer 2

Sneezing

Bilateral nasal obstruction

Clear nasal discharge

Post-nasal drip

Nasal pruritis

Question 3

Management of allergic rhinitis

Answer 3

Allergen avoidance

Mild-moderate intermittent or mild persistent- oral or intranasal antihistamines

Moderate-severe persistent- intranasal corticosteroids

Short course oral corticosteroids considered to cover important life events

Question 4

Allergic conjunctivitis features

Answer 4

Bilateral conjunctival erythema and swelling

Itch

Swollen eyelids

History of atopy

Question 5

Management of allergic conjunctivitis

Answer 5

First line- topical or systemic antihistamines

Second line- topical mast-cell stabilisers