Allergic rhinitis

PreviewWhether seasonal or perennial, allergic rhinitis represents a substantial problem in the United States. Tb persons affected only a few months each year the symptoms may seem merely annoying, but for others the symptoms can be disabling and curtail life's enjoyment The impact, both personal and economic, is far from trivial—the economic costs alone are enormous. In this article, Dr Stafford reviews nasal physiology, pathophysiology, and the differential diagnosis of inflammatory nasal conditions. He describes newer, more specific therapeutic agents that may provide better symptomatic relief and prevent complications.