What is a common finding in patients with allergic rhinitis during the examination?

Nasal congestion is a hallmark finding in patients with allergic rhinitis. This condition arises from an allergic response to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. When these allergens are inhaled, they trigger the release of histamines and other inflammatory mediators, leading to swelling and inflammation of the nasal mucosa. This results in a blockage of the nasal passages, causing the patient to experience nasal congestion.

During a clinical examination of a patient with allergic rhinitis, you would typically observe other related symptoms such as clear nasal discharge, sneezing, and itchy eyes. However, nasal congestion is particularly prominent and can significantly affect a patient's quality of life by making breathing through the nose difficult and affecting sleep.

Other symptoms, such as bloody discharge, hives, or sinus pressure, are not commonly associated with allergic rhinitis. Bloody discharge might indicate a more serious condition such as trauma or a different type of inflammation, while hives are typically a sign of a systemic allergic reaction and not restricted to nasal symptoms. Sinus pressure is often associated with sinusitis rather than allergic rhinitis specifically, although nasal congestion can lead to secondary issues such as sinus infections if not managed properly.