Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever & Nasal Allergy)
Allergic rhinitis — hay fever — is one of the most common reasons for a constantly blocked, runny, or sneezy nose. It is very treatable, and an ENT specialist can identify the triggers and stop it disrupting your sleep and daily life.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Marwan Alhalalmeh, ENT Specialist · Last reviewed: 2026-06-16
Overview
Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the lining of the nose caused by an allergic reaction to something you breathe in. When the immune system overreacts to a harmless trigger — pollen, house dust mites, animal dander, or mould — it releases histamine, which produces sneezing, itching, and a blocked or runny nose. It may be seasonal (often from pollen, sometimes called hay fever) or all year round (often from dust mites or pets). Allergic rhinitis is closely linked to sinusitis, asthma, and poor sleep, so treating it well matters for more than just the nose. An ENT specialist can confirm the diagnosis, help identify the triggers, and build a step-by-step plan — from allergen avoidance and medication to immunotherapy for stubborn cases.
Symptoms
- Frequent sneezing, often in bursts
- A runny nose or constant post-nasal drip
- A blocked, congested nose
- An itchy nose, throat, or roof of the mouth
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Reduced sense of smell, fatigue, or disturbed sleep
When to see a doctor
- Symptoms that disrupt your sleep, work, or daily life
- A nose that stays blocked despite pharmacy treatments
- Allergy symptoms alongside worsening asthma or wheezing
- Frequent sinus infections on top of the allergy
- Symptoms only on one side, or with bleeding (these need checking)
Treatment options
- Identifying the likely triggers from your history and examination
- Allergen-avoidance advice tailored to pollen, dust mites, or pets
- Antihistamines and saline rinses for day-to-day relief
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays, the most effective medical treatment for persistent symptoms
- Referral for immunotherapy (desensitisation) for selected, stubborn cases
Common questions
What is the difference between allergic rhinitis and a cold?
A cold is a viral infection that clears within a week or two, often with a fever. Allergic rhinitis is triggered by an allergen, tends to cause itching and repeated sneezing, and lasts as long as you are exposed — for weeks, months, or every year in the same season.
Are steroid nasal sprays safe to use long term?
Yes. Modern nasal corticosteroid sprays act mostly in the nose with little absorbed by the body, and are the most effective treatment for ongoing allergic rhinitis. Using them correctly and regularly, as advised, gives the best results.
Can allergies cause sinus infections?
Yes. Ongoing nasal swelling from allergic rhinitis blocks the sinuses from draining, which makes sinusitis more likely. Controlling the allergy is an important part of preventing repeated sinus infections.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy (desensitisation) gradually trains the immune system to react less to a specific allergen, using regular drops or injections over time. It is considered for stubborn cases that do not respond well to avoidance and medication.
Will allergy testing help?
Identifying your specific triggers makes avoidance and treatment far more targeted. An ENT specialist can assess your symptoms and arrange the right testing when it will change your management.
Further reading
General information about this topic from an independent health authority:
NHSIf a blocked or runny nose is wearing you down, Dr. Marwan can pinpoint the triggers and build a treatment plan that works.
Book a consultation