Allergic Rhinitis- Signs and Symptoms

Question 1

AR definition

Answer 1

IgE mediated inflammatory response of nasal mucous membrane secondary to inhaled allergenic particles

Question 2

Predisposing factors of AR

Answer 2

Family history of allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis/eczema, asthma

Allergen exposure

Heavy exposure to secondhand smoke

Question 3

What medical conditions can AR be associated with?

Answer 3

asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis, otitis media, respiratory infections, etc.

Question 4

Allergens that can trigger AR

Answer 4

Pollen grains (trees, grass, weed, ragweed)
Mold spores
Dust mite fecal proteins
Animal dander
Cockroaches (fecal matter)

Question 5

Clinical presentation of AR

Answer 5

Clear rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, itchy eyes, ears, nose, or palate; malaise/fatigue (esp. in children), pale or bluish discoloration and swelling of nasal mucosa, conjunctivitis/watery ocular discharge

Question 6

Mild intermittent AR classification

Answer 6

frequency <4 days/week or <4 weeks/year with no interference on QoL

Question 7

Moderate-severe intermittent AR classification

Answer 7

frequency <4 days/week or <4 weeks/year with interference on QoL

Question 8

Mild persistent AR classification

Answer 8

frequency >4 days/week AND >4 weeks/year with no interference with QoL

Question 9

Moderate-severe persistent AR classification

Answer 9

frequency >4 days/week AND >4 weeks/year with interference with QoL