About Nasal Allergies

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An allergy is an overreaction of your body's immune system to substances that usually cause no reaction in most individuals. In the case of nasal allergies—or allergic rhinitis—the reaction can be common nasal allergy symptoms—congestion, sneezing, and an itchy or runny nose. Nasal allergy symptoms are triggered by substances like pollen, molds, dust mites, and animal dander. For people allergic to these common substances, symptoms can be quite bothersome.

Allergy statistics

• In the US, the prevalence of allergies across all populations has been increasing since the early 1980s.
• Experts suggest that allergies affect as many as 40 to 50 million Americans.
• Pollen allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions in America.
• Nasal allergies are believed to affect 20 percent of all adults and up to 40 percent of children.
• The most common pet-related allergy trigger is cat dander, to which about 10 million Americans have a reaction.

Find much more information on nasal allergies within these sections:

Is It Nasal Allergies or a Cold?

Symptoms can be similar, but treatment methods are different. Learn how to identify the differences.

Why We Get Allergies

Find out about the causes of allergies, from substances in the environment to genetics.

Nasal Allergy Symptoms

Learn about the causes of congestion and other common nasal allergy symptoms.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Allergies

Learn the difference between outdoor and indoor nasal allergy triggers, and where common allergens of each type can be found.

Allergens

Get more details about some of the common outdoor or seasonal substances that trigger nasal allergy symptoms in your region.

Symptom Severity Assessment

Evaluate the severity of your nasal allergy symptoms in a format that makes it easy to discuss them with your doctor.