Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

Seasonal allergic rhinitis is characterized by seasonal rhinorrhea, nasal congestion/stuffiness, nasal and ocular pruritus, and paroxysmal sneezing. Allergen avoidance is the first step in the management. Symptomatic relief and improved quality of life can be achieved in the majority of patients by the appropriate use of pharmacotherapy. Mild to moderate cases can be managed with either an oral/intranasal second generation antihistamine or an intranasal corticosteroid alone. More severe cases may require treatment with an intranasal corticosteroid in combination with various agents. Patients who require medications for more than 6 months per year, two or more seasons of unacceptable pollinosis, or have intolerable side effects from pharmacotherapy, especially those with co-morbid conditions are candidates for immunotherapy. This review article also discusses recent patents related to the field.