Allergic rhinitis: the most effective dietary supplements

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

Pathophysiology

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

Classification

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

Symptoms

The main symptoms include : • Clear nasal discharge (rhinorrhea) ; • Frequent sneezing ; • Stuffy nose (nasal obstruction) ; • Nasal itching (pruritus) ; • Ocular symptoms : Allergic conjunctivitis presenting with itching, redness, and tearing. These symptoms may vary in intensity depending on allergen exposure and individual sensitivity.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based primarily on clinical evaluation. The doctor questions the patient to understand the symptoms and establish their link to potential allergens. Diagnosis is often confirmed by skin tests (prick tests) or blood tests measuring specific IgE to certain allergens.

Treatment

The treatment of allergic rhinitis aims to relieve symptoms and reduce exposure to allergens. It is organized into several approaches.1) Allergen avoidance : Limit contact with identified allergens, such as using dust-mite-proof covers, maintaining good household hygiene, and avoiding environments high in pollen or dust.2) Pharmacological treatment : • Antihistamines : These medications (oral or as a nasal spray) reduce symptoms by blocking the effect of histamine. • Nasal corticosteroids : They are particularly effective for controlling inflammation in moderate to severe forms. • Antileukotrienes : Used alongside antihistamines in some cases to reduce inflammation.3) Specific immunotherapy : For severe or resistant forms, immunotherapy (desensitization) is an effective approach. It consists of administering progressively small doses of allergens in the form of injections or sublingual drops to "re-educate" the immune system and reduce its sensitivity to allergens over the long term.

Holistic Approach

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