Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is an immune reaction in the nasal lining triggered by airborne allergens. The nose, eyes, and throat are most affected. In tropical and subtropical Asia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, year-round humidity fosters persistent dust-mite and mould exposure, meaning symptoms rarely follow a neat “season” the way they do in temperate climates. In Japan and South Korea, cedar and cypress pollen seasons drive sharp spikes each spring.
Medicines used to treat Allergic Rhinitis
Flonase Nasal Spray
50mcg
This treatment is intended to mitigate allergic rhinitis and is utilized to support sinus comfort.
Rhinocort Nasal Spray
64mcg
Utilized to address nasal congestion to mitigate allergic response.
What the symptoms look like
The hallmark cluster is sneezing (often in runs), a clear runny nose, nasal blockage, and itchy or watery eyes. Some people also notice an itchy palate or ears. Symptoms can be intermittent, tied to a specific exposure like a cat or a dusty room, or persistent, present on most days. Fatigue and poor sleep from nasal obstruction are common but under-recognised complaints.
Choosing the right treatment approach
Avoiding triggers where practical is the first step, but it is rarely enough on its own. For most people, treatment combines an antihistamine with a nasal corticosteroid spray.
Antihistamines such as bilastine or cyproheptadine reduce sneezing, itch, and watery discharge quickly. Nasal sprays containing fluticasone or budesonide target congestion and inflammation at the source and work best when used consistently rather than just on bad days. For people whose rhinitis is complicated by asthma or exercise-induced wheeze, montelukast addresses both airways together. Topical antihistamine sprays such as azelastine act within minutes and suit those who prefer not to take a daily tablet.
See also the respiratory health range for related conditions.
When to seek further assessment
Rhinitis is rarely dangerous, but a few patterns warrant medical attention: symptoms that persist despite treatment, one-sided nasal blockage or bloody discharge, loss of smell, or severe facial pain. These may point to structural issues or a different diagnosis rather than simple allergy.