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Rhinitis - Rhinitis symptom, treatment, causes

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the lining membranes ofthe nose, resulting in running or blocked nose, catarrh (excessive phlegm in the throat), crusting in the nose, sneezing. and sometimes facial pain due to associated SINUSITIS.

Acute rhinitis may be caused by viral infections (such as the common cold), bacterial infection or hay fever. Less commonly it bccurs as a side effect of medications (including some anti-inflammatory drugs, and some used to treat high blood pressure), or as a result of inhaling irritants. Treatment is 'that of the cause. with short-term use of decongestant drops or tablets to help relieve night-time nasal blockage.

Vasomotor 'rhinitis is recurring inflammation associated with swelling of the nasal lining, which causes sneezing and profuse, watery discharge. The cause is unknown, but attacks seem to be triggered by a dry atmosphere. There is no specific treatment for vasomotor rhinitis, but most sufferers benefit from keeping the air moist by using a vaporiser in the bedroom and workplace. Use of decongestants is not recommended for this type of rhinitis:

Atrophic rhinitis is a persistent condition characterised by thinning of the nasal lining, widening of the nasal cavities, crusting, and progressive loss of smell, The cause is unknown, although ageing and infection contribute. Treatments that may help include antibiotic ointments; the use of oestrogens and/or vitamins A and D by mouth or in a cream; and reducing the size of the nasal cavities with a small plug of lambswool.

Rhinitis is the medical term describing irritation and inflammation of the nose. Histamine causes inflammation and fluid production in the fragile linings of nasal passages, sinuses, and eyelids. The moist tissue (mucous membrane) that lines the nose becomes inflamed, causing swelling and blocking the airflow. Rhinitis also causes overactivity of the glands in the mucous membrane causing excessive mucus production and a watery discharge. Rhinitis is a symptom of the common cold and of hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Hay fever is an allergy to grass, weed and tree pollens, moulds, hair, feathers, skin scales (dander), house mites, house dust or other airborne substances. It causes sneezing, stuffiness and a watery discharge from the nose. There are two types of allergic rhinitis seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis, which occurs year-round. Allergens (substances that cause allergic reactions) responsible for allergic rhinitis usually enter the body by inhalation. Hay fever is caused by outdoor allergens, and perennial allergic rhinitis by indoor allergens. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis resemble a cold, except that they occur only at particular times during certain seasons or weather patterns (hay fever), and around certain animals or small household pests (perennial allergic rhinitis). Millions of people are affected by allergic rhinitis.

Causes of Rhinitis

The common Causes of Rhinitis :

• Pollen.
• Dust mites.
• Mold.
• Stress.
• Animal dander.
• Allergies.
• Common colds.
• Temperature changes.
• Infections.
• Bacteria and viruses.
• Excessive exercise.

Symptoms of Rhinitis

Some common Symptoms of Rhinitis :

• Sneezing.
• Coughing.
• Itching in the nose, roof of the mouth, throat, eyes and ears.
• Runny nose.
• Sore throat .
• Stuffy nose (congestion) .
• Headache.
• Wheezing.

Treatment of Rhinitis

• Avoidance of the allergens that are causing the problem is the best treatment.
• Anti-inflammatory nasal sprays help to decrease the swelling in the nose. Consult your child's physician to determine the proper dosage for your child.
• Corticosteroid nasal sprays also help to decrease the swelling in the nose. Corticosteroid nasal sprays work best when used before the symptoms start, but can also be used during a flare-up. Consult your child's physician to determine the proper dosage for your child.
• Antihistamines help to decrease the release of histamine, possibly decreasing the symptoms of itching, sneezing, or runny nose. Some examples of antihistamines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) or hydroxyzine (Atarax®). These medications may cause drowsiness. Consult your child's physician to determine the proper dosage for your child.
• Decongestants help by making the blood vessels in the nose smaller, thus, decreasing congestion. Decongestants can be purchased either over-the-counter or by prescription. Consult your child's physician to determine the proper dosage for your child.