Faced with the increase in allergic rhinitis, Monin-Chanteaud laboratories recall the causes, treatments and associated risks.
Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as “hay fever”, is a chronic respiratory condition whose prevalence continues to increase. According to health data, it today affects between 10% and 30% of the population, adults and children, in developed countries. This inflammatory reaction of the upper respiratory tract, often accompanied by allergic conjunctivitis, constitutes a major public health issue due to its impact on quality of life and the complications it can cause.
A cocktail of genetic and environmental causes.
The increase in cases of allergic rhinitis is explained by a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. If there is a family predisposition, modern living conditions play a major role. Urbanization, air pollution and climate change are directly blamed. The latter, in particular, contributes to the lengthening of pollen seasons, thus increasing the duration of exposure to allergens.
Among the main culprits are grass, birch, cypress and ragweed pollen, the concentration of which varies depending on the region. Beyond pollen, other elements such as diet or hygiene can also influence the occurrence and intensity of this pathology.
Characteristic symptoms and diagnosis.
The clinical manifestations of allergic rhinitis are easily recognizable. They include sneezing attacks, clear, bilateral nasal discharge (rhinorrhea), and nasal obstruction that makes breathing difficult. These major symptoms are often complemented by nasal itching (pruritus), headache (headache), loss of smell (anosmia), cough, difficulty breathing (dyspnea) and eye symptoms such as itching and tearing.
The diagnosis is based primarily on questioning the patient (history) in order to link the symptoms to potential exposure to allergens. To confirm the causative agent, the doctor generally uses skin tests, in particular the “prick test”. The latter consists of applying small quantities of allergenic extracts to the skin to observe the local reaction, which manifests itself as redness or a papule in the event of a positive test.
Complications not to be overlooked.
Far from being a simple seasonal nuisance, allergic rhinitis can cause serious complications. There is a very close link between this pathology and asthma: people suffering from allergic rhinitis have an up to eight times greater risk of developing asthma. In addition, it can promote the appearance of food allergies, notably oral allergic syndrome, which results in itching or swelling of the lips and mouth after ingestion of certain raw fruits or vegetables.
Current treatment strategies.
The management of allergic rhinitis must be personalized. The first step consists of allergen avoidance, that is to say the reduction of exposure to identified allergens, for example by avoiding walks outdoors during pollination peaks.
When this is not enough, drug treatment is prescribed. H1 antihistamines constitute more than 90% of prescriptions and can be used on demand or continuously. To combat nasal obstruction and inflammation, nasal corticosteroids are particularly effective.
For more severe or persistent cases, desensitization (or specific immunotherapy) is a basic option. It aims to induce tolerance in the body by administering progressive doses of allergens. The sublingual route is now favored for its effectiveness and excellent tolerance.
Towards new therapeutic approaches.
Scientific research continues to explore the mechanisms of allergic inflammation. Recent work has focused on epithelial cytokines such as interleukin-33 (IL-33) and TSLP. A new molecule, TNF-like ligand 1A (TL1A), has also been identified for its role in the production of another pro-inflammatory cytokine. These discoveries open the way to new therapeutic targets which could ultimately benefit patients, particularly those also suffering from asthma.
In this context, MONIN-CHANTEAUD Laboratories, based in Montpellier, offer Oligorhine® Manganese, a nasal hygiene solution based on trace elements. Formulated without propellant gas or preservatives, it combines manganese, which helps protect the nasal mucous membranes, with copper, known for its stimulating role on the immune system. Recommended at a rate of 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril, 4 to 6 times per day, this product is available in pharmacies and on the laboratory e-shop (https://www.laboratoires-monin-chanteaud.com) at the recommended retail price of €11.20 for 50 ml.
Founded in 1935 and based in Montpellier since 1993, MONIN-CHANTEAUD Laboratories specialize in herbal medicine and nutrition. They develop and manufacture in France a wide range of natural health products, recognized for their quality and recommended by the medical profession for more than fifty years.
date: 2026-02-13 18:39:00