Allergic rhinitis refers to the allergic inflammation of the nasal airways and is triggered by allergens such as animal dander, pollen or dust. Individuals having sensitive immune system are highly susceptible to allergic rhinitis. When plant pollen is the culprit behind triggering of allergy bout, it is called pollinosis and when caused by grass pollen, it is termed as hay fever.

Allergies are pretty common everywhere and a large portion of the general population is hounded by one form or another. It is estimated that one third of the populace is allergic to something or the other and around three-fourths have developed allergic reaction to something at least once in their entire lifetime.

Allergic rhinitis can be perennial or seasonal. While perennial allergic rhinitis can get triggered at any time of the year, seasonal allergic rhinitis occurs during specific seasons.