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allergen
Anything (animal dander, pollen, or mold) that causes allergy symptoms.
allergic reaction
The body´s response to something called an allergen that comes in contact with the skin or enters the body by inhalation, swallowing, or injection.
allergic rhinitis
A common allergic reaction that causes inflammation in the lining of the nose. This inflammation results in the nasal allergy symptoms of sneezing, congestion, and itchy, runny nose. “Seasonal” allergic rhinitis is triggered by airborne allergens such as tree, grass, and weed pollens. Generally, it occurs only during certain seasons and lasts a few weeks to a few months each year. Or allergic rhinitis may be “perennial” (year-round), with triggers that include house dust mites, animal dander, and mold.
allergy
An acquired, abnormal immune response to a substance, which can cause a broad range of inflammatory reactions.
animal dander
Scales of dried skin shed from cats, dogs, and other furry animals. Similar to dandruff.
antihistamines
Medications that block the effects of histamine, which is one of the substances your body releases when it reacts to allergens. Antihistamines may help relieve sneezing and itchy, runny nose and eye symptoms.
anti-inflammatory nasal sprays
These medications help reduce the inflammation in the lining of the nose, which contributes to nasal symptoms.
chronic
Something that lasts for a long time and/or causes sickness again and again.
corticosteroid
An anti-inflammatory medication that reduces inflammation in body tissue.
decongestants
Medications that shrink swollen nasal tissues. By opening up nasal passages, they reduce nasal congestion. Decongestants offer relief from nasal congestion after it has begun and are effective for temporary relief. If nasal decongestant sprays are used for more than 3 to 5 consecutive days, symptoms can become worse as the medication wears off.
dust mites
Microscopic insects, usually found in house dust, that live in places like mattresses, pillows, and carpets. They don't bite or spread any germs, but their droppings and carcasses contain a powerful allergen to which a lot of people are allergic.
FLONASE® (fluticasone propionate) Nasal Spray
A once-a-day, anti-inflammatory nasal spray for the treatment of the nasal symptoms of seasonal and year-round nasal allergies, as well as year-round nonallergic nasal symptoms.
hay fever
Also called allergic rhinitis. An allergic condition characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract. Symptoms include sneezing and itchy, stuffy, runny nose.
hypoallergenic
Refers to products formulated to contain the fewest possible allergens.
inflammation
Redness, swelling, and itching of body tissues such as the nose, resulting from an allergic reaction.
immune system
A collection of cells, chemical messengers, and proteins that work together to protect the body from potentially harmful, infectious micro-organisms (microscopic life-forms) such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
ingestant allergens
Substances to which a person is sensitized that are swallowed, such as foods, beverages, or medications.
inhalant allergens
Any airborne substance small enough to be inhaled into the lungs (such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and animal dander) that elicit an allergic reaction.
injectant allergens
Substances to which a person is allergic, which are injected into the body. Usually drugs and insect venom.
intranasal
Inside the nostrils of the nose.
mold
Naturally occurring clusters of microscopic fungi that spread by releasing spores into the air. Some people may develop nasal symptoms if they inhale these spores.
mucous membranes
Moist tissues forming the lining of body cavities that have an external opening, such as the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts.
nasal congestion
Stuffy or blocked nose.
optimal dose
Dose that gives the most complete response, for the longest period of time, with the least number of side effects.
OTC (over-the-counter)
A term used to describe drugs that can be purchased without a prescription from a healthcare professional.
perennial nonallergic rhinitis (PNAR)
A nasal condition not caused by allergies. Symptoms typically include nasal congestion, which may be associated with a runny nose, and postnasal drip throughout the year. These nasal symptoms may occur and worsen after exposure to such things as smoke, strong odors, pollution, temperature changes, and spicy foods.
pollen
The tiny spores or fine powder produced by grasses and flowering plants. Airborne pollen is a major allergen responsible for hay fever.
respiratory system
The group of organs responsible for carrying oxygen from the air to the bloodstream and for expelling carbon dioxide.
seasonal allergies
See allergic rhinitis.
sensitization
To become allergic as a result of repeated exposure to a specific allergen.
symptom
A recognizable change in a person´s physical or mental state that is a departure from normal function, sensation, or appearance, and that may indicate a disorder or disease.
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