What should you know about cough due to allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis inflames the lining of the nose after exposure to triggers such as pollen, dust or animal dander. Nasal congestion and drainage can tickle the back of the throat and prompt repeated coughing, throat clearing or an itchy feeling. Sneezing, a runny nose and itchy or watery eyes may occur at the same time. Symptoms may come and go with exposure. Wheezing, chest tightness or breathlessness suggests that asthma or another airway problem also needs consideration.

Track where and when symptoms appear, then reduce exposure where practical: keep windows closed during high-pollen periods, wash your face after outdoor exposure and limit dust accumulation in sleeping areas. Saline nasal rinsing may clear irritants when performed safely with appropriate water. A pharmacist can explain antihistamines or a nasal spray, including technique and possible side effects. Treating nasal inflammation may reduce the throat trigger, but avoid using decongestant sprays for longer than advised.

Book an appointment if symptoms are persistent, disrupt sleep, affect work or do not improve with appropriate measures. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips or tongue, difficulty breathing, faintness or a rapidly worsening reaction after food or a medicine. Cough with wheezing or chest tightness needs assessment, particularly if it keeps returning. A clinician can distinguish allergic rhinitis from sinusitis, infection or asthma.

Which trigger pattern fits my symptoms? Is a nasal spray or antihistamine appropriate for me? Could asthma be contributing to the cough? How should I use a nasal spray correctly?