At Omnicure Clinical Research, we’re committed to advancing respiratory and allergy research — helping patients better understand the conditions that affect their everyday lives.
Seasonal vs. Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common respiratory conditions, but not everyone who sneezes, has nasal congestion, or itchy eyes truly suffers from chronic (perennial) allergic rhinitis. Many people confuse it with seasonal allergies or temporary irritations. Understanding the differences is key to receiving proper treatment and improving your quality of life.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis appears during certain times of the year — mainly in spring and fall — when pollen or spores are most abundant. Symptoms usually improve or disappear outside of these seasons.
In contrast, perennial allergic rhinitis occurs all year long, since its triggers are not tied to a particular season. Common allergens include dust mites, mold, pet dander, and even certain household chemicals.
In short, if your symptoms never seem to go away regardless of the season, you may be dealing with chronic rhinitis.
Key Symptoms of Perennial Rhinitis
- Persistent nasal congestion, especially in the mornings
- Itching or burning in the nose, throat, or palate
- Repeated sneezing even without exposure to pollen
- Continuous clear and watery nasal discharge
- Fatigue or frequent headaches due to poor oxygen flow
- Constantly irritated or watery eyes
A key sign is that symptoms never fully disappear, but instead fluctuate in intensity throughout the year.
How to Confirm the Diagnosis
Diagnosing chronic allergic rhinitis requires a specialist evaluation, usually by an allergist or ENT physician.
Typical steps include:
- Detailed medical history: When symptoms began, what worsens them, and whether there’s a family history of allergies.
- Physical examination: Checking the nasal mucosa and sinuses.
- Allergy tests (skin or blood): To detect IgE antibodies for specific allergens.
- Ruling out other causes: Such as chronic sinusitis, deviated septum, or occupational exposure to irritants.
Factors That Worsen Chronic Rhinitis
- Sleeping with pets or using unprotected bedding that accumulates dust mites
- Carpets and upholstery that trap allergens
- Frequent use of candles, incense, or scented air fresheners
- Air conditioning units with dirty or unmaintained filters
Recognizing and minimizing these environmental triggers is as essential as medical treatment.
In Summary
Having chronic allergic rhinitis means living with ongoing nasal inflammation caused by year-round allergens.
If your symptoms don’t go away with the seasons, don’t wait for them to “just pass.”
A proper diagnosis can help you access personalized treatments — from antihistamines to immunotherapy — that can make the difference between constant discomfort and breathing freely again
Join Our Current Study on Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
At Omnicure Clinical Research, we are currently conducting a Perennial Allergic Rhinitis study in collaboration with Eli Lilly, focused on helping patients find better, long-lasting relief.
If you or someone you love experiences year-round allergy symptoms, you may qualify to participate.
Our team is actively recruiting participants.
Call us today at (305) 842-2000 to learn more and find out if you or your loved one may be a good candidate to take part in our Allergic Rhinitis study.
Together, we can advance science — and bring hope with every breath.
