Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis, whose seasonal form is called hay fever, is inflammation inside the nose that occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens. It is classified as a type I hypersensitivity reaction, with signs and symptoms including a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and red, itchy, watery eyes with swelling around them; symptoms often begin within minutes of allergen exposure and can affect sleep and the ability to work or study. Many people with allergic rhinitis also have asthma, allergic conjunctivitis, or atopic dermatitis.