Ascent Ear Nose & Throat
Allergic Rhinitis Treatment In Singapore
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nose's nasal cavity and mucous membrane. It is vital to understand your symptoms and seek medical treatment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and management can reduce the complications of rhinitis.
Comprehensive Services
Providing the highest standard of ENT care in Singapore and the region.
Accredited Specialists
Senior ENT surgeons with internationally-recognised fellowship training.
Convenient Locations
4 Clinics conveniently located in Orchard, Napier Road, Thomson, and Joo Chiat.
Common Symptoms of Rhinitis
-
Runny or stuffy nose
-
Itchy nose
-
Frequent sneezing or coughing
-
Blocked nose
-
Itchy eyes
What Is Rhinitis/Sensitive Nose?
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nose's nasal cavity and mucous membrane. It is commonly known as ‘sensitive nose’. There are 2 types of rhinitis—allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis.
Allergic rhinitis is commonly characterised by a runny nose, stuffiness and persistent sneezing due to exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust. On the other hand, non-allergic rhinitis has no apparent allergic cause and is typically triggered by cigarette smoke, temperature changes and hormonal changes.
Complications of Rhinitis
-
Insomnia or inability to sleep at night
-
Ear infections
-
Sinusitis or infection of the sinuses
-
Headache
-
Worsening of asthma symptoms
Common Causes of Rhinitis
-
Family history and genetics
-
Exposure to allergens and pollutants such as dust, smoke or pollen
-
Seasonal changes in temperature or humidity
-
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation
For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents
Insurance & Medisave Partners
Certain ENT procedures are claimable under Medisave, and the exact amount would depend on the procedure. For more information, please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plan, Integrated Shield Plan, or Medisave.
Diagnosis of Rhinitis
Physical examination
Your doctor may review your symptoms and medical history to determine the severity of your rhinitis.
Flexible nasendoscopy
This test involves inspecting the inside of your nasal passages and sinuses using an endoscope, a thin, fibre-optic viewing instrument.
Skin prick test
A skin prick test is conducted by placing several substances and common airborne allergens on your skin to see if there is any allergic reaction. This test is usually performed to rule out allergic causes of rhinitis.
Blood tests
A blood test may be performed to measure your immune system’s response to common allergens by measuring the amount of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your bloodstream.
Upon receiving a diagnosis, we will guide you through the several treatment options we offer and propose a treatment plan specific to your condition.
Treatment Options for Rhinitis
While rhinitis cannot be fully cured, its complications can be managed with the following treatment options:
Medication
Some of the most commonly prescribed medications to reduce the effects of rhinitis may include:
- Antihistamines. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can stop your body from producing histamine, which is a natural chemical your immune system makes to defend your body from allergens.
- Decongestants. These drugs, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), narrow the blood vessels to reduce congestion in the nose. However, there may be side effects such as high blood pressure and heart palpitations.
- Nasal sprays. Saline nasal sprays or antihistamine nasal sprays help to flush the nose out of irritants and soothe rhinitis symptoms. In some cases, corticosteroid nasal sprays may be recommended to help treat inflammation, especially if antihistamines or decongestants are not effective in treating rhinitis symptoms.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy or allergy shots can decrease your immune system’s response to particular allergens and control rhinitis symptoms over time. Alternatively, a non-injection method known as sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) may also be performed, which involves placing a tablet containing a mixture of several allergens under your tongue.
When Should You See An ENT Specialist In Singapore??
-
Any Ear, Nose or Throat symptoms that you are troubled with or concerned of
-
Persistent blocked nose with mouth breathing or snoring
visit us today
Photo Gallery
Our Main Clinic
Feel free to drop by our clinic and meet our specialist
-
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre 3 Mount Elizabeth #09-03, Singapore 228510
-
-
Other Practice Locations
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
-
3 Mount Elizabeth #09-05 Singapore 228510
-
-
Parkway East Medical Centre
-
319 Joo Chiat Place #03-02 Singapore 427989
-
-
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre D
-
820 Thomson Road #08-63 Singapore 574623
-
-
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rhinitis serious? When should I visit a doctor?
While rhinitis itself is typically not life-threatening, if left untreated, it may result in further complications in the airways.
You should seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms persist for an extended period of time or if they impede your daily functions to a great extent.
What increases the risks of rhinitis?
- Exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke or exhaust fumes
- Family history of allergies
- Prolonged use of nasal sprays or decongestants
- Structural abnormalities in your nasal passage
- Frequent nose picking
- Side effects of certain medications
How to prevent rhinitis?
- Avoid things that you are allergic to
- Prevent overuse of nasal sprays or decongestants
- Adopt good personal hygiene by washing or sanitising your hands frequently
- Avoid smoking
- Use a humidifier
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid picking or rubbing your nose too hard
- Drink plenty of water
- Get adequate rest
