Allergic rhinitis Flashcards
1
Q
What type of hypersensitivity reaction is allergic rhinitis an example of?
A
Type I
2
Q
What are the clinical features of allergic rhinitis?
A
- Sneezing
- Bilateral nasal obstruction
- Clear nasal discharge
- Post-nasal drip
- Nasal pruritis
- Pale, boggy nasal mucosa with hypertrophic turbinates
- Cobblestone appearance of the posterior pharyngeal wall
3
Q
What is the management of mild-to-moderate allergic rhinitis?
A
Oral or intranasal antihistamines
4
Q
What is the management of moderate-to-severe allergic rhinitis?
A
Intranasal corticosteroids
5
Q
Why should topical nasal decongestants (e.g. oxymetazoline) not be used for prolonged periods?
A
Increasing doses are required to achieve the same effect (known as tachyphylaxis) and rebound hypertrophy of the nasal mucosa
