Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever is an inflammation of the nasal and sinus tissues characterized by nasal congestion, itchy eyes, mouth or skin, runny nose and sneezing. It is typically triggered by environmental allergens such as pollens, animal dander, dust mites, or moulds.

Allergic rhinitis can affect quality of life, causing poor sleep quality, drowsiness during the day, fatigue, and poor concentration. The inflammation associated with allergic rhinitis can make symptoms of asthma worse and may often lead to other conditions such as nasal polyps, ear infections in children, and recurrent sinus infections in adults.These symptoms and complications can usually be well-controlled with environmental control measures, safe and effective medications, and in some cases, allergen immunotherapy.