What physical sign is typically associated with allergic rhinitis?

The presence of a transverse nasal crease is a distinctive physical sign associated with allergic rhinitis. This crease develops as a result of repeated rubbing or pushing of the nose upward due to itching and irritation, commonly seen in individuals with allergies. Over time, the chronic behavior can lead to a prominent line across the bridge of the nose, which serves as an important clinical indicator of the condition.

In contrast, while a deviated septum can contribute to nasal obstruction and may occur alongside allergic rhinitis, it is not specifically a sign of the condition itself. Similarly, maxillary sinus tenderness is more indicative of a sinus infection or sinusitis rather than allergic rhinitis. Although nasal polyps can be found in individuals with chronic allergic rhinitis, their presence alone does not define the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis. Hence, the transverse nasal crease stands out as the most indicative physical sign of this allergic condition.