What triggers allergic rhinitis?

In last 30 to 40 years there has been significant increase in the incidence of allergies. A combination of factors, including genetics, increasing air pollution, and the adoption of modern urbanized lifestyles, has contributed to this increase.1

1

Indoor Allergies

Many different allergens cause symptoms in an indoor setting. The most common ones are mites, dogs, and cats1, in addition to:

Indoor allergies illustration
Perfume
36.8%
Perfume2
Air conditioning
23.4%
Air conditioning2
Smoking
10.8%
Smoking2
Chemicals
13.8%
Chemicals2
2

Outdoor Allergies

  • The source of allergic illness from outdoor allergens can be multiple, with pollens and fungal spores being the primary sources.1
  • Particles are released from the sources into the air by wind, rain, mechanical disturbance, or active discharge mechanisms.1

The most common ones are1

  • Pollens: grass, tree, weeds — affects approximately 40% of individuals with allergies.
  • Air pollutants1: Air pollution is linked to both increased prevalence of allergic rhinitis and symptom exacerbation.3
  • Mold
Dust
27.3%
Dust2
Air pollution
14.5%
Air pollution2
Weather changes
10.8%
Weather changes2

References:
1-Singh, M., & Hays, A. (2016). Indoor and Outdoor Allergies. Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice, 43(3), 451–463. doi:10.1016/j.pop.2016.04.013 2-Aburiziza A, MA, Alonazi, AS, Zatari, MH, Alqouzi, SA, Mandili, RA, Hawsawi, WT, Aljohani, RH. The Prevalence, Clinical Picture, and Triggers of Allergic Rhinitis in, Saudi Population: A, Systematic Review, and Meta-Analysis. J Asthma Allergy. 2022 Dec 23;15:1831-1849. doi: 10.2147/JAA.S391142. PMID: 36582219; PMCID: PMC9793734. 3. Li CH, Sayeau K, Ellis AK. Air Pollution and Allergic Rhinitis: Role in Symptom Exacerbation and Strategies for Management. J Asthma Allergy. 2020;13:285292.