Chronic Rhinitis is a persistent condition where the nasal passages remain inflamed, causing a runny or stuffy nose: it is considered “chronic” when it has persisted for more than 4 weeks without interruption. This inflammation can be triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, and mold or irritants such as smoke, tobacco smoke, spicy foods and temperature changes. People with a history of allergies, asthma, or chronic sinusitis are more prone to developing this condition.
Chronic rhinitis can be categorized into allergic and non-allergic types. The symptoms, including nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and sneezing, can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Diagnosis often involves reviewing the patient’s medical history and conducting tests to identify underlying causes, with the goal of reducing inflammation and improving nasal function.
Chronic Rhinitis is characterized by chronic drainage from the nose, sometimes associated with nasal congestion and difficulty breathing. Depending on the cause of allergic rhinitis, there may be other associated symptoms. For example, allergic chronic rhinitis may be associated with sneezing, watery eyes, itchiness, and/or rash related to allergen exposure. Rhinitis related to sinus infections may be associated with headaches, fevers, fatigue, or thick nasal secretions.
Treatment of chronic rhinitis requires treating the underlying cause. Usually treatment involves a combination of oral and topical medications including antihistamines, steroids, and nasal saline irrigations.
For patients with allergic rhinitis, treatment often includes nasal irrigation, nasal corticosteroids, and oral antihistamines to reduce inflammation and control symptoms.Additional reduction in environmental exposure may also improve symptoms, such as using air purifiers and avoiding exposure to allergens. Severe cases may require blood tests to identify specific allergens, immunotherapy or allergy testing to tailor treatment plans.
Treatment for non-allergic rhinitis typically involves using nasal and oral decongestants, nasal sprays, and other medications targeting the specific triggers or underlying conditions. For example, nasal decongestants can alleviate congestion, while antihistamines may help manage symptoms related to non-allergic triggers like smoke or strong odors. Nasal irrigation with saline sprays can also be beneficial in maintaining clear nasal passages and reducing inflammation. Non-allergic rhinitis related to infections should target the underlying infection to alleviate symptoms.
Effective treatment of chronic rhinitis requires addressing the underlying cause, often involving a combination of medications, nasal sprays, and lifestyle changes.
For severe cases of chronic rhinitis that do not respond to conservative medical therapy, several procedures are available.
Yes, there are several non-surgical alternatives for managing chronic rhinitis and alleviating the symptoms of a chronic runny nose. These treatments focus on reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms, and preventing exposure to known triggers.
These non-surgical treatments can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with chronic rhinitis by effectively managing symptoms and preventing complications. It’s essential for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific triggers and symptoms.