Rhinitis simply means
inflammation of the nose. This can be the result of allergies
(allergic rhinitis) or may be the result of other factors such as
mucosal irritation (non-allergic rhinitis). Common symptoms of
both types of rhinitis are nasal secretions that run or that drip
down the back of the throat. In addition patients may also report nasal
obstruction or even facial pain or pressure. Allergic patients in
particular often complain of an itchy nose often accompanied with itchy
and watery eyes.
It is important to differentiate rhinitis, which is just
confined to the nose from sinusitis which affects the nose and sinuses,
as sinus disease may require antibiotics, steroids and possibly surgery (for more information about sinus disease click here).
Furthermore, the otolaryngologist must determine if the rhinitis is
due to allergies or some other factor. If we suspect
that the nasal symptoms are the result of allergies we may recommend
steroid nasal sprays, oral antihistamines (medicines like Claritin, Allegra or Zyrtec) and possibly allergy
testing so you may receive consideration for immunotherapy (injections
designed to decrease your reaction towards things to which you are
allergic). Non-allergic rhinitis may be treated with steroid nasal
sprays but is also commonly treated with medicines to alleviate post
nasal drip (Atrovent or various decongestants).
If you think you may have rhinitis, or have questions about it please feel free to give us a call.
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