Allergic rhinitis, also known as
hay fever or
pollinosis, is a type of
inflammation in the nose which occurs when the
immune system overreacts to
allergens in the air. Signs and symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose,
sneezing, red, itchy, and watery eyes, and swelling around the eyes. The fluid from the nose is usually clear. Symptoms onset is often within minutes following exposure and they can affect sleep, the ability to work, and the ability to concentrate at school. Those whose symptoms are due to
pollen typically develop symptoms during specific times of the year. Many people with allergic rhinitis also have
asthma,
allergic conjunctivitis, or
atopic dermatitis.