Diagnosis and Management of Allergic Rhinitis in Children

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis which is the most common pediatric allergic disease has a significant negative impact on quality of life in affected children. Further, overall poor control can lead to ‘allergic march’ and later development of bronchial asthma. The main symptoms of allergic rhinitis include nasal discharge, blockage and itchiness of nose, and sneezing. Clinical history focused on identification of nature and severity of symptoms, trigger factors and clinical features of non-allergic rhinitis is crucial for early and accurate diagnosis.The mainstay of non-pharmacological management of allergic rhinitis is allergen avoidance.Second-line antihistamines used either locally or orally are first-line treatment of mild to moderate allergic rhinitis whereas topical nasal corticosteroids are the first line treatment for moderate to severe disease, in whom the control of symptoms is not achieved with antihistamine and those with severe nasal obstruction.Combination therapy with antihistamines and intranasal steroids is more effective than either alone and is second line treatment for children who have poorly controlled rhinitis while on monotherapy. Oral steroids may be indicated in children with significant nasal obstruction and routine use of oral steroids should be avoided.Referral to specialist allergy clinic should be considered for those who are symptomatic despite optimal local and oral therapy. Consideration should be given for specialist otorhinolaryngologist evaluation of children who have features of non-allergic rhinitis and pharmacotherapy resistant nasal obstruction.

International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 05 No. 02 April’21 Page: 159-162