Allergic Rhinitis: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes caused by exposure to allergens such as pollens, dust mites, molds, or animal dander. It manifests through various symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge (rhinorrhea), a blocked nose sensation (nasal obstruction), and sometimes eye symptoms like tearing and itching.

Pathophysiology

Allergic rhinitis results from an excessive immune response to substances harmless to most people but identified as 'enemies' in allergic individuals. Upon exposure to an allergen, the body produces immunoglobulins E (IgE) which bind to mast cells (present in the nasal mucosa and airways). This binding triggers the release of inflammatory mediators, including histamine, responsible for mucosal inflammation and typical symptoms such as nasal obstruction and sneezing.

Classification

Allergic rhinitis can be classified based on the duration and intensity of symptoms:Duration of symptoms: • Intermittent: When symptoms appear less than four days a week or less than four consecutive weeks. • Persistent: Symptoms are present more than four days a week and more than four consecutive weeks.Symptom severity: • Mild: Symptoms do not affect quality of life. • Moderate to severe: Symptoms significantly impact daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life.

Symptoms

Main symptoms include: • Clear nasal discharge (rhinorrhea); • Frequent sneezing; • Blocked nose (nasal obstruction); • Nasal itching (pruritus); • Eye symptoms: Allergic conjunctivitis manifesting as itching, redness, and tearing. These symptoms can vary in intensity depending on allergen exposure and individual sensitivity.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is mainly based on a clinical evaluation. The doctor questions the patient to understand the symptoms and establish their link with potential allergens. The diagnosis is often confirmed by skin tests (prick-tests) or blood tests for specific IgE against certain allergens.

Treatment

The treatment of allergic rhinitis aims to relieve symptoms and reduce exposure to allergens. It involves several approaches.1) Allergen avoidance: Limiting contact with identified allergens, such as using anti-dust mite covers, maintaining good home hygiene, and avoiding environments rich in pollen or dust.2) Medication: • Antihistamines: These medications (oral or nasal spray) reduce symptoms by blocking the effect of histamine. • Nasal corticosteroids: They are particularly effective in controlling inflammation in moderate to severe forms. • Antileukotrienes: Used in addition to antihistamines in some cases to reduce inflammation.3) Specific immunotherapy: For severe or resistant forms, immunotherapy (desensitization) is an effective approach. It involves administering gradually increasing doses of allergens in the form of injections or sublingual drops to ‘re-educate’ the immune system and decrease its sensitivity to allergens in the long term.

Holistic Approach

Trace elements can play a role in strengthening the body against allergies. In addition to conventional treatments, copper and manganese are often used due to their beneficial effects on inflammation and modulation of the immune response.