Can allergic rhinitis be left untreated?

Allergic rhinitis is a non-infectious inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa, primarily mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) following exposure to allergens. So, can allergic rhinitis be left untreated? Let’s explore this further.

Can allergic rhinitis be left untreated?

No, it cannot. Allergic rhinitis is a relatively common otolaryngological condition with diverse clinical manifestations. Typical symptoms include recurrent nasal itching, profuse watery rhinorrhea, and frequent sneezing. Without timely treatment, these symptoms may worsen, significantly impairing daily life and work performance. In severe cases, patients may develop allergic asthma, habitual snoring, or mouth breathing during sleep.

Therefore, individuals diagnosed with allergic rhinitis should promptly consult an otolaryngologist upon symptom onset. Diagnostic evaluations—including allergen testing and nasopharyngolaryngoscopy—can help assess disease severity. Treatment typically involves oral medications and intranasal sprays, supplemented by regular follow-up visits to monitor therapeutic response.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis

1. Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion results from mucosal hyperemia and edema in the nasal sinuses, along with increased nasal secretions. Its severity varies widely—it may affect one or both nostrils, occur intermittently or persistently, or alternate between sides. Severe congestion may necessitate mouth breathing and, in extreme cases, cause temporary anosmia.

2. Nasal pruritus

Nasal itching is common in most patients and may extend to the external nose, soft palate, face, or external auditory canal. Patients with pollen allergy (hay fever) often experience concurrent ocular and pharyngeal itching—classic features of allergic rhinitis. Nasal itching frequently triggers paroxysmal sneezing, especially upon waking, at night, or after allergen exposure, often occurring suddenly and intensely.

We hope the above information is helpful to you.