SOME observers maintain that the incidence of allergic conditions is increasing. Whether this is true or whether the apparent increase is due to a medical profession more conscious of this malady and possessing better facilities for diagnosis is debatable. Regardless of the merits of this question, many allergic patients, on account of the nature of their symptoms, first consult the otolaryngologist. It is, therefore, his duty to be able to recognize this condition and to recommend proper therapeutic procedures.
With the exception of acute, subacute and chronic infections, allergy is the commonest cause of nasal symptoms. A physician should always look with suspicion on the patient, adult or child who has a constant nasal cold. Some years ago, in writing on this subject, I classified the allergic nose in five categories, and since that time I have seen no reason for changing this classification. The patients will always fall into