Causes and risk factors
Rhinitis is usually caused by virus – rhinovirus, influenza virus, or adenovirus. Secondary infection may be caused by bacteria like streptococcus or staphylococcus. Chronic rhinitis is caused due to recurrent attacks of acute rhinitis. Overuse of nasal drops or topical decongestants is a major causative factor for this disease. Predisposing factors include infections like sinusitis, tonsillitis. Other factors such as vasomotor rhinitis, DNS, nasal polyps, atmospheric pollution, general debility, and diseases like hypothyroidism lead to the disease. Additional risk factors include smoking and alcohol drinking. Other causes of rhinitis are certain medications [oral contraceptives, antihypertensive, antianxiety], viral infections, etc.
Clinical presentation
Patient presents with burning in the nasopharynx. There is dryness and irritation in the nose. Runny nose, nasal congestion, itching is experienced. Paroxysmal sneezing may be present. Patient experiences fever, fatigue, malaise. Thick, viscid nasal discharge is present called as rhinorrhea, which becomes profuse. Nasal blockage occurs. Postnasal drip occurs. There is loss of sense of smell [anosmia]. Fever and headache may be present.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. CBC is advised.
Treatment
Nasal decongestants give temporary relief. Predisposing factors should be eliminated. Alkaline nasal douching helps to get rid of thick viscid discharges. Analgesics, antipyretics, antihistamines, and steroids may be required.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating chronic rhinitis. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating chronic rhinitis.
