What Happens
The first time you are exposed to
an allergen in the air, your body's immune system may recognize the allergen as
a foreign substance. Your body reacts by making
against the allergen.
The next time you are
exposed to the allergen, the antibodies react to it. This releases histamine and
other chemicals that cause the symptoms of your allergy. This is called
sensitization. Sensitization may occur early in life.
Children who
have allergic rhinitis may become allergic to many
allergens, including
,
on cats and dogs, and tree and grass
pollens.
See a picture of how an
.
Complications
Allergic rhinitis can affect your health if you don't
treat it. If it lasts a long time, you may have
complications such as
, plugged ears, and
. Some people with allergic
rhinitis have
. Some have
, and researchers are looking at whether
allergic rhinitis may lead to asthma.
Allergic rhinitis
can also affect your quality of life. You may avoid seeing people, have
problems sleeping, and feel tired or grumpy. You may have trouble with
school or work.