hayfever Flashcards
what is hayfever?
aka allergic rhinitis. caused by allergic reaction to exposure to pollen from wind. typically occurs between early spring and late autumn. body produces antigens to pollen grains. these are permanent and will be triggered by pollen. the body will then produce histamine which will cause sneezing and itching. the body will also produce prostaglandins causing blood vessels to swell and leak causing nasal congestion and sensitivity to histamine.
symptoms of hayfever
sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose, swollen red itchy eyes and tickly throat and cough
referral criteria for hayfever
no history, children under 8 or 60+, antihistamines dont work, breastfeeding or pregnant people, under 18 requesting nasal spray, no improvement after 7 days, other medication and symptoms such as wheezing or a fever
treatment options
corticosteroid nasal sprays, topical decongestants, oral decongestants and oral antihistamines
what are the different types of corticosteroid nasal sprays and how they help?
beclametasone, triamcinolone and fluticasone. they suppress inflammtion while beclametasone can help reduce eye symptoms
what are the licensing restrictions around corticosteroid nasal sprays?
not suitable for under 18 or pregnant people. can be issued on prescription for 6+. may take two weeks for full effect. no longer than three months use.
types of topical decongestant and how they work?
xylometazoline and oxymetazoline help with nasal congestion. no longer than 7 days use or risk getting rebound congestion.
types of oral decongestant and how they work?
pseudoephedrine is used to treat hayfever by narrowing blood vessels in nose
licensing around oral decongestants
not suitable with other medication, diabetes,over active thyroid, blood pressure in conjunction with heart disease or pregnancy.
how do oral antihistamines work?
they work by controlling sneezing, itchy eyes and runny nose
what are the sedating antihistamines and the cautions around them?
promethazine and chlorphenamine. no alcohol with use. side effects can include dry mouth,blurred vision, constipation and gi issues. have to be taken several times a day.
what are the non-sedating antihistamines and the licensing around them?
cetirizine and loratadine for 2+ taken once daily and acrivastaine and pseudoephedrine available for 12+ taken three times daily. not suitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
what medications relieve allergic conjunctivitis?
sodium cromiglicate and antazoline
how does sodium cromiglicate work and the licencing surrounding it?
prevents histamine which prevents symptoms. instilled four times daily and is suitable for 6+.may take days to work.
what is antazoline used for?
used for itchy eyes and can be found in eye drops or topical decongestants
