Allergic rhinitis is a seasonal or perennial problem which manifests principally as the combination of nasal obstruction, a runny nose (rhinorrhea), repeated sneezing and itching of the nose or palate (pruritus of the nose or palate).
These symptoms reflect the inflammation triggered by interaction between one or more allergens and specific IgE antibodies, an interaction which provokes a series of complex cell-mediated processes, the allergic reaction.
Classification of rhinitis
The classification of rhinitis has changed subsequent to the Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) consensus published in 2001.[1] This classification takes into account symptoms and quality of life. It is based on duration and severity, allowing the distinction to be made among 4 stages:
- Intermittent rhinitis
- Persistent rhinitis
- Mild rhinitis
- Moderate/severe persistent rhinitis
