Health

Nasal Allergies: When Should You Worry?

Published

4 years ago

April 13, 2021

Nasal allergies or allergic rhinitis is a common condition in both adults and children. Your quality of life is greatly reduced due to allergic rhinitis and it can take a significant toll on an individual due to constant sneezing, tearing, itching and difficulty breathing due to nasal congestion. Many people with nsal allergies find it difficult to sleep well. In some cases, one may also suffer recurrent dizziness and headaches.

Did you know that nasal allergies can be treated and well managed? Nasal allergies may also lead to sinus problems, like sinus infections. An experienced ENT physician will help you to regain control of your nasal allergy.

How to identify if I have a nasal allergy?

If you have any of the following symptoms, then you might have allergic rhinitis.

A runny nose
Sneezing
Nasal congestion
Itchy nose
Feeling of phlegm or mucus inside your nose and throat
Sore throat
Coughing
Watery and itchy eyescan
Light-headedness and frequent headaches
Dark circles under the eyes
Nosebleeds
Hives
Eczema

When exposed to allergens, you may experience one or more symptoms. Longterm exposure can cause fatigue and headaches. Symptoms can be persistent all year round or occur when exposed to large quantities of the allergen. If the symptoms do not settle after a week or so, then it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist.

What causes allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis occurs when your body is exposed to allergens. It could be pollen, grass, house dust mites or animal fur. When one comes into contact with these allergens, it causes the body to release histamine, which is a natural chemical helping the body to defend against allergens. Histamine release leads to the allergy-related symptoms of sneezing, itchy nose with watery eyes, runny nose and blocked nose.

Many people seem to get used to the chronic nasal congestion and sinus problems, without realising the impact these allergies have made to their lives. People forget what it was like before developing these allergies and wrongly assume that it is “normal” to have a blocked runny nose. To relieve a flare up of symptoms, many generally grab over the counter medications. A recommended allergy specialist like Dr. Annabelle Leong at the ENT Clinic in Singapore can help you with a long- lasting treatment plan and relieve you of nasal allergy symptoms.

What are the risk factors of nasal allergy?

Allergies can affect both young and old, but individuals who have a family history of allergies have a higher chance of developing the condition. Atopic eczema and asthma can increase the risk. Other external triggers could be long term exposure to air pollution, cigarette smoke, chemicals, smoke from burning plastics and wood, perfumes and weather changes including cold and windy conditions.

How is nasal allergy diagnosed?

Your ENT doctor will take your medical history and do a physical examination. In addition, allergy testing may be performed. A skin prick test is the most common while an allergy blood test for allergy-related antibodies to various allergens may be undertaken by your ENT doctor.

What can I do to prevent nasal allergies?

Keeping your home free from allergens can help. Use of an air purifier instead of opening the windows will help to filter allergens. Keeping fabrics and curtains clean and vacuuming carpets will be useful at reducing the number of allergens at home. A dehumidifier can also help with excessive moist conditions to reduce the growth of moulds at home. Washing your pillows and bedlinen in hot water at 60 degrees and drying them in direct sunlight can help to reduce the presence of house dust mites, the most common trigger for nasal allergies and allergic rhinitis in Singapore.

Can over the counter medications help allergic rhinitis?

Mild allergic rhinitis can be treated by using over the counter medicines. Nasal sprays help in reducing the inflammation caused in the nasal passages. Antihistamines can also help in relieving sneezing and itching. Decongestants are also available as over the counter medications. These medicines help if you only have mild symptoms once in a while.

What are the prescription treatments for allergic rhinitis?

If you are suffering from persistent symptoms which are not responding to over the counter medications, then prescription treatment is needed.

Doctor-prescribed nasal steroid sprays can help to relieve congestion, itchiness and sneezing. It is safe with very minimal absorption into the body and is effective since it is directly applied on the affected area. Prescription antihistamines and decongestants also help in relieving symptoms and controlling the condition. Desensitisation treatment in the form of sublingual immunotherapy may also be suitable for those suffering from severe house dust mite allergies, where a small amount of the allergen in the form of a tablet or spray is applied daily under your tongue to gradually and safely build immunity towards the allergen. This usually takes 3-5 years to achieve and is quite successful for house dust mite allergy.

What are the self-help steps for allergic rhinitis?

Apart from medications, a simple but very effective method to help relieve symptoms includes nasal irrigation with a saline douche. This involves squirting sea-salt water with sodium bicarbonate into the nose to keep it clear of allergen buildup. It could also help in relieving sinus symptoms.

Cleansing the nasal passages with saltwater clears out allergens which trigger symptoms. A simple squeezy bottle, syringe or a neti-pot can be used. A warm shower and applying warm compress over the nose may also be helpful.

What complications can arise from nasal allergies?

If nasal allergies persist or become severe, complications may occur, such as frequent sinus infections, facial pain or headaches, worsening asthma with difficulty breathing and wheezing, and inability to sleep. Nasal allergies or allergic rhinitis can also lead a persistent drip of mucus flowing down your throat which can result in throat irritation, sore throat or even throat infections. Ear infections with buildup of fluid behind the eardrum and earache can also occur due to the congestion of the Eustachian pressure tubes which open up at the back of the nose. Eye infections with puffy red sore eyes, as a complication of allergic rhinitis may also be something to worry about.

Health

What Sets Why Not Natural Supplements Above Other Supplements Companies in the U.S.

Published

1 month ago

November 21, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo courtesy of Why Not Natural

By: Georgette Virgo

In an industry plagued by minimal regulation and questionable practices, Why Not Natural Supplements sets a new standard in transparency and scientific excellence. Founded by chemical engineer Kelin Marquet, this female-owned supplement company challenges the status quo with clean and effective formulations backed by rigorous research.

Why Not Natural Supplements’ outlook on supplement creation contrasts starkly with many competitors in the $50 billion U.S. dietary supplement market. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require pre-market approval for supplements, which leaves consumers vulnerable to potentially ineffective or harmful products. Why Not Natural Supplements has implemented stringent self-imposed standards that go far beyond regulatory requirements.

“We’re on a mission to educate consumers about what a supplement should look like,” says Kelin Marquet. “As a mother of three, I’m motivated by creating supplements that I feel comfortable giving to my own family.”

A Science-First Approach to Supplement Formulation

Why Not Natural Supplements’ commitment to scientific integrity begins with its founder. Marquet’s background in chemical engineering informs every aspect of the company’s product development process.

“I use my background and strong understanding of science to pore through research articles and choose active ingredients that work – not cheap substitutes you usually find in supplements,” Kelin Marquet explains.

This science-first perspective extends to the company’s use of bioavailable forms of nutrients and its emphasis on third-party testing. Why Not Natural Supplements rigorously tests every product—including their best-selling Organic Vitamin D3 Liquid Drops with K2, 4-in-1 Magnesium Complex, Liquid Vitamin A (10,000 IU) with Coconut MCT Oil, and many others—for purity and potency. This practice sets the company apart in an industry where such thorough quality control is far from standard.

Transparency and Clean Formulations

Why Not Natural Supplements’ transparency is evident in its viewpoint on ingredient selection and labeling. The company maintains a list of ingredients that will never appear in its products, including artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, and common allergens.

“It’s not just about what’s in a supplement – it’s essential what’s not in it, too,” Marquet emphasizes. This philosophy extends to the company’s use of clean, minimalist formulations that avoid unnecessary fillers and additives.

The company provides consumers with clear, accurate information about each product’s contents. This level of transparency is rare in an industry where, according to the National Institutes of Health, supplement labels may not always accurately reflect the product’s contents.

Kelin Marquet emphasizes that each product formulation undergoes rigorous scientific scrutiny, with every ingredient serving a specific, research-backed purpose. “We don’t just throw ingredients together because they’re trendy,” Marquet explains. “Every component in our formulas is there for a reason, in its most bioavailable form, and at the optimal dosage.”

Education and Consumer Empowerment

Why Not Natural Supplements’ mission extends beyond creating high-quality supplements to educating consumers about supplement quality and safety. The company uses its social media platforms and website to provide in-depth information about ingredient sourcing, manufacturing processes, and the science behind its formulations.

This educational outlook is particularly crucial in light of the rapid growth of e-commerce in the supplement industry. As online sales platforms capture an increasing market share, the traditional role of natural and specialty retailers as information gatekeepers is diminishing. Why Not Natural Supplements is stepping into this gap, providing consumers with the knowledge they need to understand dietary supplements and find one that best fits their needs.

“We’re not just selling supplements,” Marquet states. “We’re empowering consumers to make informed decisions about their health by showing them exactly what goes into each formula and why.”

In an industry where regulation is minimal and quality can be inconsistent, Why Not Natural Supplements stands out as a company committed to raising the bar through its science-based method, commitment to transparency, and focus on consumer education.

“Our goal is to change how individuals see natural supplements,” Marquet concludes. “We believe that by prioritizing quality, efficacy, and transparency, we can help consumers reclaim their health and trust in their supplements.”