Yes. Allergic rhinitis is classified as seasonal or perennial depending on the trigger.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergens that are present at specific times of year — most commonly tree and grass pollens. Children with pollen allergy have symptoms that worsen during the relevant season and improve significantly at other times. Perennial allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergens present year-round, most commonly house dust mites, cockroach allergen, pet dander, and indoor mould. Children with perennial allergic rhinitis have symptoms throughout the year with little seasonal variation, though they may be worse at certain times depending on the indoor environment. Some children have both: a perennial pattern from indoor allergens with additional seasonal worsening during pollen season. Identifying which pattern applies — and which specific allergen drives it — is the starting point for effective management.
Written by Dr H K Kiran Kumar, MBBS, DCH (JSS Medical College, Mysore), Allergy Asthma Specialist Course (MedTrain), Senior Paediatrician and Allergy Asthma Specialist, Kiran Speciality Hospital, Hassan, Karnataka.
