Allergic rhinitis, often referred to as hay fever, is a common condition that causes inflammation in the nasal passages in response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould. Although not life-threatening, allergic rhinitis can have a significant impact on daily life, causing fatigue, congestion, poor sleep, and frequent sinus discomfort.

At Central Sydney ENT, Dr Arjuna Ananda provides expert assessment and evidence-based treatment for allergic rhinitis. As an ENT specialist, he is experienced in identifying the root causes of nasal inflammation and tailoring treatment plans that provide long-term relief.

Understanding Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to otherwise harmless allergens, triggering an inflammatory response in the nasal lining. It can be:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis: Often caused by pollen during the spring and summer months
• Perennial allergic rhinitis: Triggered by year-round allergens such as dust mites, animal dander, or indoor mould

In some individuals, environmental irritants such as smoke, pollution, and temperature changes can also exacerbate symptoms.

Common Symptoms

People with allergic rhinitis may experience:

• Frequent sneezing and nasal itchiness
• Clear nasal discharge or a persistent runny nose
• Nasal congestion, often worse at night
• Postnasal drip (mucus draining into the throat)
• Itchy or watery eyes, especially during high pollen seasons
• Fatigue, poor sleep, or trouble concentrating
• Worsened asthma, coughing, or shortness of breath

Symptoms may be mild and seasonal, or persistent and severe, depending on the triggers and duration of exposure.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Dr Ananda takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing allergic rhinitis, which may include:

• Reviewing your medical history and symptom patterns
• Conducting a detailed nasal and sinus examination
• Ordering allergy testing (skin prick or blood test) where appropriate
• Requesting imaging (such as CT scans) if chronic sinus inflammation is suspected

Proper diagnosis is essential to rule out other causes of chronic nasal symptoms, such as structural blockages, nasal polyps, or sinus infections.

Treatment Options

Effective treatment of allergic rhinitis focuses on minimising exposure to triggers, reducing inflammation, and improving quality of life. Depending on your condition, treatment may include:

• Nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation
• Antihistamines or decongestants to manage symptoms
• Saline nasal rinses for clearing irritants and mucus
• Allergen avoidance strategies, tailored to your specific triggers
• Immunotherapy (desensitisation) for long-term allergy control in suitable patients

If medications are not effective or you have persistent nasal obstruction, Dr Ananda may explore whether coexisting conditions like a deviated septum or turbinate hypertrophy are contributing to your symptoms.

Why See an ENT Specialist for Allergic Rhinitis?

While many patients first seek help from their GP or pharmacist, persistent or complex allergic rhinitis often benefits from the input of an ENT specialist. Dr Ananda brings:

• Advanced expertise in nose and sinus function
• Access to diagnostic tools like endoscopy and imaging
• Insight into structural contributors to ongoing nasal inflammation

This comprehensive approach allows for both medical and (if required) surgical options to be considered in managing your condition.