Allergic Rhinitis Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English
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Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal lining triggered by allergens such as house dust mites, pollen or pet dander. It causes sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and itching. At Gangnam Yonsei ENT, an English-speaking former university professor confirms the trigger with allergy testing and builds a stepwise plan of avoidance, medication and, if needed, immunotherapy or surgery.
What is allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is an IgE-mediated inflammatory reaction of the nasal mucosa. When an allergic person inhales a substance the immune system has become sensitized to, mast cells in the nose release histamine and other mediators. The result is swelling, mucus production and nerve irritation inside the nose.
It is commonly divided into seasonal (pollen) and perennial (year-round) forms. In Seoul, house dust mites are a frequent perennial trigger, while tree and grass pollen peak in spring and autumn.
Symptoms
- Repeated sneezing, often in bursts
- Clear, watery nasal discharge
- Nasal blockage that may alternate sides
- Itchy nose, eyes, palate or ears
- Postnasal drip and throat clearing
- Poor sleep, mouth breathing and daytime fatigue
Causes and triggers
The underlying cause is allergic sensitization, which has a strong genetic component. Typical triggers include dust mites, pollen, mold spores, cat and dog dander and cockroach allergens. Irritants such as smoke and airborne particles can worsen symptoms, which overlaps with fine dust and yellow dust rhinitis.
How it is diagnosed at our Gangnam clinic
Diagnosis starts with a detailed history: when symptoms occur, where, and what makes them better or worse. Dr. Kim then examines the nasal lining, often with nasal endoscopy, to look for pale, swollen turbinates and to rule out polyps or a structural problem.
An allergy test identifies which allergens you react to. Knowing the specific trigger guides avoidance advice and decides whether immunotherapy is an option.
Treatment options
Treatment follows the international ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma) guideline and moves step by step:
- Allergen avoidance – practical measures for dust mites, pets and pollen days.
- Medication – intranasal corticosteroid sprays, non-sedating antihistamines and leukotriene antagonists, explained on our allergic rhinitis medication page.
- Immunotherapy – for confirmed dust mite allergy, daily sublingual immunotherapy tablets can reduce sensitivity over time.
- Surgery – when swollen turbinates keep the nose blocked despite good medical care, turbinate reduction surgery under local anesthesia can improve airflow.
Surgery treats the blockage, not the allergy itself, so most patients continue some medical care afterward.
When to see an ENT
Book an assessment if symptoms last more than a few weeks, disturb sleep or work, or do not respond to over-the-counter tablets. See a doctor promptly if you have one-sided blockage with bloody discharge, facial swelling, high fever, or wheezing and shortness of breath, since allergic rhinitis and asthma often occur together.
Seeing Dr. Kim in English
Dr. Kim Yoo Suk is a board-certified otolaryngologist and former assistant professor at Ajou University who also taught at Yonsei. His subspecialty is rhinology, and he is a member of the Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Consultations are in English; see our guide for international patients for practical details.
Frequently asked questions
Can allergic rhinitis be cured?
There is no permanent cure for most people, but symptoms can usually be controlled well. Immunotherapy for dust mite allergy is the one treatment that changes the immune response itself, and it typically requires daily use for several years to give lasting benefit.
Are steroid nasal sprays safe for long-term use?
Modern intranasal corticosteroid sprays act locally and are absorbed into the body in very small amounts. Used at the recommended dose and with correct technique, they are considered safe for long-term use in adults. Dr. Kim will show you how to aim the spray to avoid nosebleeds.
Do I need to stop antihistamines before an allergy test?
Usually yes, because antihistamines can suppress the test result. Many patients are asked to stop them for several days beforehand. Message the clinic on WhatsApp before your visit and we will tell you exactly which medicines to pause and for how long.
Your doctor
Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD
Board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT). Former clinical assistant professor at Yonsei University and assistant professor at Ajou University School of Medicine. Nose & sinus subspecialist who treats all ear, nose and throat conditions.
Consultations in English. Guide for international patients →
Visit us in Gangnam
2F HS Tower, 703 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Gangnam-gu Office Station (Line 7 / Suin-Bundang), Exit 3-1
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9:00–19:00
Wed 14:00–19:00 · Sat 9:00–14:00
Closed Sundays & public holidays
This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.