Allergic rhinitis: Practical tips and advice

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Allergic rhinitis is a common long-term condition affecting around 20% of the UK population. Although some people seek support from health professionals, the majority self-manage their condition. Allergic rhinitis can have an impact on education, work, home and social life. It can also adversely affect examinations in school children. A good diagnosis is usually made clinically, based on a careful history and examination with a consideration of other potential diagnoses. Treatment in most situations is successful with standard treatments of antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids, along with non-pharmacological interventions. If uncertainty exists, a specialist referral is appropriate but remembering that compliance is often an issue, as can be the correct use of an intranasal spray. Successful treatment is rewarding for the clinician and can significantly reduce the impact that allergic rhinitis has on patient's lives.