Your GP should be able to diagnose allergic rhinitis by asking about your symptoms and your personal and family medical history. They will also ask about any triggers that seem to cause a reaction, and whether it happens at a particular place or time.
Your GP may examine the inside of your nose to check for nasal polyps. Nasal polyps are fleshy swellings that grow from the lining of your nose or your sinuses (the small cavities inside your nose). They can be caused by the inflammation (swelling) that results from allergic rhinitis.
You may be asked a couple of questions to rule out other possible causes of rhinitis, such as an infection or exposure to chemicals.
Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis is normally confirmed at the beginning of treatment. If you respond well to antihistamines, it is almost certain that your rhinitis is caused by an allergy. If the exact cause of your allergic rhinitis is uncertain, you may be referred for allergy testing.
Allergy testing
Two tests that may be carried out are:
- skin prick test. This is usually the first test to be carried out when trying to determine which allergen is causing your allergic rhinitis. The allergens are placed onto your arm and introduced into the skin by pricking it with a short pin. If you are allergic to the substance, your skin will become itchy, red and swollen
- blood test. This is used to measure the amount of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody in your blood that has been produced by your immune system in response to a suspected allergen
The use of commercial allergy testing kits is not recommended. The testing is often of a lower standard than that provided by the NHS or by accredited private clinics. Also, it is important that the results of the test are interpreted by a qualified professional who has detailed knowledge of your symptoms and medical history.
