Rhinitis - Allergic (Pediatric) Signs and Symptoms

Last updated: 16 February 2023
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Introduction

  • Most prevalent in childhood and adolescence

Definition

Rhinitis

  • Inflammation of the nasal lining membranes 

 Allergic Rhinitis

  • IgE-mediated inflammatory disease of the nasal mucous membrane occurring after exposure to allergens and trigger factors
  • Also known as hay fever or allergic rhinosinusitis

Epidemiology

  • Affects approximately 25% of children worldwide
    • Estimated prevalence in Europe and United States is 30%
  • Approximately 80% of symptoms of allergic rhinitis develop before 20 years of age

Signs and Symptoms

Major Signs and Symptoms
  • Nasal itching
  • Watery rhinorrhea
  • Nasal congestion, with or without obstruction
  • Sneezing
Other Signs and Symptoms
  • Headache
  • Conjunctival symptoms, eye pruritus
  • Pruritus of the nose, palate, ears
  • Postnasal drainage
  • Impaired smell
  • Sleep disturbance/sleep apnea