Rhinitis

Rhinitis is inflammation of the lining of the nose, which may be caused by allergies or other factors. Allergic rhinitis is characterized by an itchy/runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.

Other allergic symptoms include tickly throat, problems with ears feeling blocked up, red/watery eyes, cough, fatigue/loss of concentration/lack of energy from loss of sleep, and headaches or facial tenderness.

Rhinitis can be either acute or chronic. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also called hayfever) is usually caused by pollen in the air, and sensitive patients have symptoms during times of peak pollen levels during the year.

Perennial allergic rhinitis, a type of chronic rhinitis, is a year-around problem, and is often caused by indoor allergens, such as dust and animal dander.

Non-allergic rhinitis (also called vasomotor rhinitis) occurs in those patients in whom an allergic cause cannot be identified. Vasomotor rhinitis is thought to occur because of abnormal regulation of nasal blood flow.

Rhinitis can be treated using medicines such as antihistamines or anti-inflammatory agents, such as nasal glucocorticosteroids.