Allergic Rhinitis

Common signs

These descriptions can help you understand and record what you notice. They cannot establish a diagnosis on their own.

• Bouts of sneezing +

  Sneezing comes in rapid bursts — several in a row — often concentrated in the morning or after contact with dust, pollen, or cold air. Note whether there is a clear trigger; if bouts happen daily year-round and disrupt your life, it is worth getting assessed for allergies.

• Clear, watery runny nose +

  Copious thin, watery discharge that pours during flare-ups — quite unlike the thicker mucus of a late-stage cold. If it turns yellow-green with fever or facial pressure, a secondary infection may be involved and you should see a doctor.

• Nasal congestion and itching +

  An itchy nose you cannot stop rubbing, with blockage on one or both sides that flares during episodes and eases between them. Notice whether the congestion comes in bouts or never clears; persistent one-sided blockage or any nosebleeds should be checked.

• Itchy, watery eyes +

  Eyes itch, water, and redden alongside the nasal symptoms, and rubbing makes it worse. If eye symptoms are prominent or there is noticeable discharge, get them assessed rather than relying on over-the-counter drops long-term.

• Reduced sense of smell +

  Smell dulls when the nose is blocked, or gradually fades after long-running flare-ups. Note whether it returns once the congestion clears; if it does not, have your nasal passages examined.