Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal passages causing excessive mucus production, leading to a runny nose and nasal congestion. Chronic rhinitis can be allergic or non-allergic and is often caused by exposure to irritants. Treatment includes medications, avoiding triggers, and home remedies.
Rhinitis is inflammation or irritation of the nasal passages. This condition causes excessive mucus production in the nose, leading to runny nose and nasal congestion. A related condition called post-nasal drip, in which excess mucus builds up in the back of the nose, is also a common side effect. Up to 20% of people have rhinitis at any one time, with most episodes being quite short-lived. Prolonged episodes of rhinitis are called chronic rhinitis. This condition is often caused by allergies or exposure to chemicals or other irritants.
There are two main types of chronic rhinitis: allergic and non-allergic. Chronic allergic rhinitis is a relatively minor condition, but it has the potential to significantly affect quality of life, as the condition can affect the eyes, ears and throat in addition to the nose. Allergic rhinitis is caused by excessive sensitization of the immune system to environmental antigens, resulting in chronic irritation and inflammation when exposure occurs. One of the most common triggers of allergic rhinitis is wind-blown pollen from grasses, weeds, and certain types of trees and shrubs. Other common triggers include dust mites, pet dander, and pet dander.
Chronic nonallergic rhinitis does not directly involve the immune system. Instead, exposure to one or more environmental triggers can cause inflammation of the nasal passages. Triggers vary from person to person and can include smoking or perfume, changes in temperature or humidity, respiratory infections, alcohol or spicy foods, stress, or specific types of medications.
Symptoms of rhinitis include nasal itching and congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Additional symptoms of chronic rhinitis can include red or watery eyes, blocky ears, headaches, and fatigue, if the condition is caused by allergies. When a post-nasal drip is involved, a sore throat or chronic cough may also develop.
Allergic rhinitis is typically treated with medications to control symptoms. Avoiding triggers is somewhat difficult, particularly when the trigger is pollen. Limiting outdoor exposure on dry or windy days can help reduce pollen exposure, and showering after time outdoors is also a helpful measure. Medications to treat this condition include prescription antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs to limit the allergic response and decongestants to clear the nose. People who don’t respond to this treatment may be able to opt for a form of immunotherapy in which the immune system is desensitized to allergy-inducing antigens.
Chronic nonallergic rhinitis can be treated with a variety of home remedies or over-the-counter preparations. Oral and nasal spray decongestants and over-the-counter antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce inflammation and clear your nose. however these tend to be more helpful for chronic allergic rhinitis. Chronic nonallergic rhinitis can also be relieved with plenty of fluids to improve hydration and a humidifier to help keep your nose clean. A hot shower or facial steam bath is a popular home remedy for loosening mucus in your nose and keeping your head clear.
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