Sanofi

Understanding Allergies

Understanding Allergies

Woman outside with pollen and no allergy

What exactly is an allergen?

It’s a substance that triggers an allergic reaction.

Here’s a list of common triggers of both indoor and outdoor allergies:

  • Pollen
  • Pet Dander
  • Ragweed
  • Mold

An allergen can trigger chemical responses in your body, which, in turn, unleashes a whole host of nasal allergy symptoms.

Blocking these responses is a way to provide relief.

Consider this:

For many people, these chemical responses can result in seasonal allergy symptoms. For some, they trigger allergy symptoms that last all year long.

Seasonal vs. Perennial Allergies

Different seasons bring different allergens. Depending on the frequency and timing of symptoms, allergic rhinitis can be classified as outdoor (Seasonal) or indoor (Perennial).

  • Seasonal (outdoor) allergic rhinitis often results from the exposure to allergens, such as pollens or molds that typically appear once a year, usually in the spring or fall.

The figure below illustrates how the occurrence of seasonal allergic rhinitis may vary across Canada.

AtlanticIcon of atlantic region
QuebecIcon of quebec region
OntarioIcon of ontario region
ManitobaIcon of manitoba region
Saskatchewan
Alberta
Icon of saskatchewan and alberta region
British
Columbia
Icon of colombia region
February Tree
March Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree
April Tree Grass Tree Tree Tree Tree Grass
May Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass
June Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass Tree Grass
July Grass Tree Grass Ragweed Tree Grass Tree Grass Ragweed Tree Grass
August Grass Ragweed Ragweed Ragweed Ragweed Ragweed
September Grass Ragweed Ragweed Ragweed Ragweed Ragweed
  • Tree
  • Grass
  • Ragweed

Aerobiology Research Laboratories. Pollen and Spore Report 2001
† Cities of Windsor and Victoria areas only.

  • Perennial (indoor) allergic rhinitis is often caused by allergies to animal dander, dust mites, or other.

That's why Nasacort® Allergy 24HRTM is specially formulated to be an effective treatment for your nasal allergy symptoms, all year long. Nasacort® Allergy 24HRTM does not cause rebound congestion, so not only is Nasacort® Allergy 24HRTM effective on seasonal allergies, but it’s appropriate for daily use as well for up to 6 months*.

Nasal allergy signs and symptoms

Allergy signs and symptoms often involve the nose, eyes, ears, and throat.

Allergic rhinitis sufferers most commonly experience nasal symptoms, including the following:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Sneezing
  • Sinus pressure with headaches
  • Postnasal drainage
  • Runny nose (rhinorrhea)
  • Itchy nose or palate
  • Decreased sense of smell and taste

About allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis (AR) occurs when the body’s immune system has an exaggerated response to an allergen.

The allergic cascade

  • 1.ExposureAn allergen (like pollen or dust) enters the nose, sensitizing the mast cells.
  • 2.Early-phase responseSensitized mast cells release mediators such as histamines, causing itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing.
  • 3.InflammationCytokines bring white blood cells to the affected area, causing irritation and inflammation that lead to congestion.
  • 4.Late-phase responseThe inflammation leads to the release of even more histamines and mediating chemicals, which worsen symptoms.
  • 5.The solution: Nasacort® Allergy 24HRTM tackles the nasal allergy symptoms.

* Do not use continuously for more than six months without consulting with your doctor.