Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory condition of the nasal passages caused by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, and itching or a runny nose. Management includes avoidance of allergens, antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and other medications to relieve symptoms. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for allergic rhinitis is based on the examination of 35 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for allergic rhinitis is included along with 12 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Immune Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
The most critical risk factor for allergic rhinitis is the genetic component. Having a first-degree relative affected can increase the probability of suffering from allergic rhinitis by up to 75%. However, in addition to the above, several environmental factors also contribute to its development, among which the following stand out:
- Having allergies or asthma
- Suffering from atopic dermatitis or eczema
- Living in an environment of continuous exposure to allergens, smoke, or odors that irritate the nasal epithelium
- Having a mother who smoked during pregnancy and/or first year of life
Symptoms
It is usually a chronic condition with symptoms that may appear continuously or be seasonal, triggered by exposure to allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet hair, etc). Symptoms include:
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Itching and redness of the eyes
- Coughing and sneezing
- Itchy nose and throat
- Bluish or swollen skin under the eyes
- Difficulty sleeping and tiredness
Prevention
There is no practical way to prevent the development of allergic rhinitis. However, one can reduce the symptoms by avoiding exposure to triggering allergens and taking appropriate medications to control it.
