Every season, many "allergy stars" will be troubled by allergic rhinitis, with symptoms such as nasal congestion, itching, runny nose, sneezing, etc. making people "unbearable". Experts remind that allergic rhinitis seriously affects the quality of life and cannot be tolerated. Long term uncontrolled rhinitis may lead to sinusitis, otitis media, and even asthma, which should be taken seriously and treated promptly. Wang Wei, director of the Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Surgery Department at Tianjin First Central Hospital, stated that the key to preventing allergic rhinitis is the four step method of "avoiding, washing, preventing, and treating": avoiding allergens, adhering to nasal flushing, medication prevention, and necessary desensitization treatment. If the symptoms seriously affect daily life, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly. According to experts, currently for patients with allergic rhinitis, drug therapy, immunotherapy, and other treatment methods are generally adopted. At the same time, traditional Chinese medicine methods such as acupoint massage can be used as auxiliary treatment. For severe cases, additional treatment methods such as biological agents and surgical treatment can also be used. Avoiding exposure to allergens is the core of preventing allergic rhinitis. Wang Wei stated that patients with allergic rhinitis should identify allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, etc. through skin prick tests or blood tests. For people who are allergic to pollen, outdoor activities can be reduced during the pollen season, and N95 masks and goggles can be worn when going out. After returning home, you can immediately rinse your nasal cavity with physiological saline or sea salt water, wash your face, and change clothes. For people who are allergic to dust mites, they can clean bed sheets and pillowcases with hot water above 60 ℃ every week, use anti mite fabric bedding, and regularly clean the air conditioning filter. In addition, nasal irrigation is one of the most simple and effective ways to alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Patients can use nasal spray or nasal washer to wash the nasal cavity with normal saline 1-2 times a day, which can effectively remove allergens and inflammatory media. Wang Wei suggests that patients with allergic rhinitis should also try to create "hypoallergenic" homes, such as using HEPA filter air purifiers and regularly removing dust. Avoid using carpets, plush toys, and other items that are prone to dust accumulation. Indoor smoking is prohibited to prevent smoke from exacerbating nasal mucosal irritation. Experts say that enhancing immunity is an effective way to reduce sensitivity from the root. Patients with allergic rhinitis should have a regular schedule, moderate exercise, avoid staying up late, have a balanced diet, and supplement nutrients such as vitamin D according to doctor's advice. (New Society)