Rhinoconjunctivitis is an inflammation that simultaneously affects the nasal mucous membranes and the conjunctiva. This inflammation is commonly called allergic rhinitis or “hay fever” because of the increasing number of cases observed during the flowering season of certain plants. Indeed, rhinoconjunctivitis is primarily caused by contact with or inhalation of an allergen such as pollen, house dust, moulds, dust mites, animal hair and other. Considered to be a mild disease, rhinoconjunctivitis may be subject to complications caused by a lack of adequate treatment, especially if it occurs in combination with other allergic diseases such as urticaria, eczema or asthma.
The onset of rhinoconjunctivitis is usually indicated by frequent sneezing, followed by congestion or nasal discharge, as well as eye irritation and tearing. The time period between the contact with the allergen and the onset of allergic rhinitis may be minimal and immediate, or extend over a longer period of time, sometimes even lasting several years. These symptoms may be accompanied by other disorders such as insomnia, irritability, an impaired sense of smell and taste, decreased visual acuity and hearing, and a continuous feeling of fatigue.
Regardless of the season of the year, there always exists a pollen agent likely to cause rhinoconjunctivitis. This is what is referred to as seasonal allergic rhinitis, that is to say a condition that only appears when the allergen is present in the atmosphere. As a preventive treatment, one may take two weekly doses of Pollen 15 CH. Otherwise, 3 granules of the same remedy or 5 grams of Apis mellifica 15 CH should be taken upon awakening, especially if allergic rhinitis occurs during the season in which the allergen is most prolific.
Sneezing and watery eyes are among the common symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis. If sneezing occurs in short time intervals, the use of Allium cepa 9 CH is indicated. But if discomfort occurs upon awakening, this remedy can be replaced by Nux vomica 9 CH. Take 5 granules of one of the above-cited remedies every hour until improvement is noticed. In case of significant nasal discharge, complete the treatment with Sabadilla. If the disorder is alleviated by a hot environment, take Urtica urens 5 CH.
We often speak of acute rhinoconjunctivitis when symptoms occur despite the administration of basic and preventive care. In this case, the association of several remedies such as Euphrasia, Kalium iodatum, Arsenicum album and Allium cepa with Pollen 15 to 30 CH or with Lung Histamine 15 CH is indicated, especially when the symptoms become particularly disabling for the affected person. Furthermore, it is also possible to stabilize the symptoms by resorting to nasal irrigation or a surface treatment with eye drops.
It is advisable to consult a doctor from the onset of the first symptoms of allergic rhinitis. A medical consultation is also essential in case of treatment failure or if the symptoms worsen. Pay special attention to the manifestations of rhinoconjunctivitis and do not hesitate to see a doctor at the onset of severe visual impairment. The same applies in case of nosebleeds (epistaxis) that occur following the administration of a remedy.
Good to know: Some types of rhinoconjunctivitis require the patient’s desensitisation when confronted to an allergen. To do so, it is necessary to follow a long-term treatment that may very well be taken in combination with homoeopathy.
