The major complications of untreated allergic rhinitis are ear infections, sinusitis and poorly controlled asthma. The economic impact of allergic rhinitis is also enormous. Treatment includes avoidance, and if insufficient, medication. People with mild symptoms may need only an occasional over the counter antihistamine or a preventive nasal spray such as Nasalcrom. The choice between the various medications needs to be made by the physician in collaboration with the patient's preference and tolerance, depending on severity of symptoms.
Adequate treatment allows patients to lead a normal life with minimal side effects.
Allergy is a major factor in asthma, but not the only one. The symptoms of asthma are coughing, wheezing, and trouble breathing. Symptoms are usually intermittent, but may be continuous during attacks or in patients with severe asthma. Depending on one's sensitivities, asthma may act up only during certain seasons or all year. Asthma may appear at any age and even infants and persons past middle life can get signs of asthma.