Mnemonics: Allergic Rhinitis

Author: V. Dimov, M.D., Allergist/Immunologist and Assistant Professor at University of Chicago
Reviewer: S. Randhawa, M.D., Allergist/Immunologist and Assistant Professor at LSU (Shreveport) Department of Allergy and Immunology

Prevalence of asthma is 8%, prevalence of AR is 3 times higher (24%). 40% of patients with AR have asthma, 80% of patients with asthma have AR.

Pollen calendar: TGR MI

Tree pollen
Grass pollen
Ragweed and weeds

Mold
Indoor allergens are year-round

References: Clinical review: ABC of allergies, Summer hay fever. BMJ 1998;316:843, figure. Click here for Pollen Calendar for North America.

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis: CS DIES

Congestion
Smell impairment

Discharge - watery nasal discharge
Itching
Eye symptoms
Sneeze

Samter's triad include asthma, aspirin sensitivity, and nasal/ethmoidal polyposis:

ASPirin
Asthma
Sensitivity to aspirin
Polyps

Treatment

Stepwise approach to treatment of allergic rhinitis: OASIS

Omit (avoid) allergens
Antihistamines (oral and topical)
Steroids (topical)
Immunotherapy (SCIT, SLIT)
Surgery

References: Clinical review: ABC of allergies, Perennial rhinitis. BMJ 1998;316:917, figure.

Medications

S
Steroids
Single best drug in AR for
Stuffiness (congestion)

F
Fexofenadine
Free of sedation at any dose

S
Singulair
Single daily dose
Suicude risk (potential)

Published: 01/24/2008
Updated: 05/23/2009