The most effective way to treat rhinitis is by avoiding the allergen, but it can be difficult to avoid anything carried in the air we breathe.

However, there are a number of self-help tips you can provide to patients to reduce their exposure:

Dust mites – damp dust weekly to remove the allergens, ventilate the house adequately, wash bedding weekly on a hot wash (60oC), use allergy proof bedding, use a vacuum cleaner that contains a high efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) which removes more dust than a regular vacuum. If reactions are severe then carpet may need to be replaced with wood or vinyl floor coverings.

Pets – keep pets outside or limit them to one room, wash pets at least once a week.

Fungal Moulds and Spores – keep windows closed to prevent spores entering the house, use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air, regularly inspect high risk areas for fungal growth. Keep bathrooms, kitchens and window frames clean, ventilate well to avoid damp, and avoid steam moving through the house when cooking or bathing by keeping kitchen or bathroom doors closed.

Pollen - Wear wraparound sunglasses when outdoors to help stop pollen from getting in the eyes.  Stay indoors when the pollen count is high (above 50). Keep windows (including car windows) and doors closed as much as possible. After being outdoors change clothes and take a shower to remove pollen from the body. Avoid cutting grass or reduce exposure to grassy areas. 

Antihistamines – work by blocking the effects of the chemical histamine which is released in response to an allergen when the immune system feels it is under attack by the allergen, in this case pollen. By blocking histamine they help relieve the symptoms of hay fever occurring.
Antihistamines help to treat the following symptoms but they may not unblock the nasal passages:

• Itching
• Sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Runny nose

Antihistamines are available OTC in various forms: tablets, liquids, eye-drops and nasal sprays. You should make yourself familiar with the products available in your pharmacy as well as how they work so you are able to advise the customer corerctly.