Coryza is inflammation of the mucous membranes inside the nose and nasal passages, causing symptoms such as a runny nose, swollen nose, and loss of smell. It can be caused by a cold, allergies, or other conditions, and can lead to secondary symptoms such as coughing and sinusitis. Treatment includes rest and fluids, but if symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought.
Coryza is a medical term that describes a number of symptoms commonly associated with head colds, although other conditions can also cause coryza. The hallmark of this set of symptoms is inflammation of the mucous membranes inside the nose and nasal passages. When a patient comes to a doctor with these symptoms, certain diagnostic tests can be used to determine the cause and develop an effective treatment. There are some instances where coryza can be a warning sign of a very serious medical problem.
Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose causes the nose to become red, tender and swollen. Patients typically begin generating large amounts of mucus, resulting in the classic runny nose that people associate with a cold. The eyes may water if the inflammation spreads, and patients may develop a stuffy nose as mucus blocks the nasal passages. People commonly lose their sense of smell and may feel lightheaded or dizzy.
Prolonged symptoms may be associated with coughing, as mucus can drip down the throat and irritate the windpipe and lungs. Patients may also develop headaches and other secondary symptoms. People with these symptoms often assume they have a cold caused by a bacterial or viral infection and can treat it at home with rest and fluids, two common treatments that can be very effective for many minor infections.
Coryza can also develop as part of an allergic response, as well as being associated with measles. People with rhinitis, inflammation of the nose, also commonly have these telltale symptoms. Patients can also develop sinusitis, in which the sinuses become inflamed, if they experience prolonged inflammation inside the nose. This can lead to sinus headaches, thick or obstructed voice, hearing difficulties, and other secondary symptoms including extreme discomfort around the face due to blocked and inflamed sinus cavities.
In many cases, resting at home with fluids and regularly blowing the nose to get the mucus out will allow people to recover from the underlying cause of their discomfort. If coryza persists or worsens, or is accompanied by symptoms such as a rash, difficulty breathing, high fever, altered level of consciousness, confusion, or slurred speech, you should see a doctor. The patient may have a more serious infection or illness that cannot be treated at home, such as a measles infection. Many clinics and hospitals have a nursing hotline that people can call to determine if a family member needs to see a doctor or be taken to the hospital. With these hotlines, people who are unsure can call, report symptoms in detail, and discuss the situation with the nurse for advice.
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