How to Fight Allergies That Cause an Itchy Nose

by SARAH HARDING  

woman outside with itchy nose Photo Credit DoraZett/iStock/Getty Images

Allergies can be mild to severe and are caused by a number of things, from dust to pollen or even pet dander. Allergy testing can reveal the exact allergens that trigger a reaction so you can do your best to avoid them. When an allergen enters the nose, it can cause lasting side effects until it is removed either by sneezing, nasal drainage or blowing your nose. Symptoms of allergies include dry itchy eyes, throat and nose as well as sneezing, post nasal drip and coughing. These symptoms can be both treated and prevented by following a few simple steps.

Step 1

field of wild flowers that cause allergies Photo Credit David De Lossy/Photodisc/Getty Images

Avoid contact with any allergens that you know are triggers. Avoid going outdoors for long periods of time if you have environmental allergies. Check the local allergen forecasts at sites like Pollen.com before going outside.

Step 2

woman blow drying hair after wash Photo Credit Keith Spaulding/iStock/Getty Images

Change your clothing and wash your hair if you were outdoors during peak allergen times. The wind can transport the allergens through the air, attaching to your clothes and body.

Step 3

woman holding duster Photo Credit Monkey Business Images/Monkey Business/Getty Images

Dust and vacuum your home often if you have identified this as a nasal irritant. Fragrances should also be minimized in your environment if they cause any symptoms of allergy. Keep your windows closed to prevent more environmental spores from entering your home.

Step 4

woman cleaning bathroom Photo Credit diego cervo/iStock/Getty Images

Check your home for mold if this is a known allergen. Commercial mold removers can be used to treat any concerns in your house. Severe mold outbreaks may require a professional cleaning.

Step 5

woman holding bottle of saline nasal spray Photo Credit Christopher Pattberg/iStock/Getty Images

Use saline nasal sprays to remove allergens from your nasal passages. These are available over-the-counter and do not contain any medications, just saline, a sterile solution of sodium chloride (salt). The liquid is pushed into your nose in a fine mist, and then you're instructed to gently blow it out. Any pesky allergens hiding out in your nose should be removed with this technique. Saline mist will also moisturize your nasal passages.

Step 6

doctor holding out allergy medication Photo Credit Alexander Raths/iStock/Getty Images

Take an antihistamine product to block allergy symptoms, including itchy nose. These can be taken prior to allergen exposure to prevent any symptoms.

Tips

• Medicated nasal sprays and prescription strength antihistamines are also available if you discuss these options with your doctor.

Things You'll Need

• Saline nasal spray
• Antihistamine

www.livessstrong.com