Chronic Rhinitis

Overview

Rhinitis is the inflammation and swelling of the nose's mucous membrane. There are two forms of rhinitis: allergic and nonallergic. Allergic rhinitis is caused by a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction that causes nasal mucous membrane irritation.

Infectious rhinitis, atrophic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, drug-induced rhinitis, occupational rhinitis, gustatory rhinitis, hormonal rhinitis, and nonallergic rhinitis with eosinophilia syndrome (NARES) are all examples of nonallergic chronic rhinitis. The most common cause of infectious rhinitis is an upper respiratory tract infection that develops as rhinosinusitis.

Nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, and postnasal drip are all clinical symptoms of rhinitis. Patients with allergic rhinitis frequently suffer nasal irritation, sneezing, and worsening of symptoms during specific seasons or when exposed to certain allergens (e.g., dust, animal dander, mold spores, or plant pollen). Atrophic rhinitis can be either primary (idiopathic) or secondary (acquired) (e.g., due to granulomatous diseases). This kind of rhinitis is characterized by a foul-smelling, crust-filled nasal cavity and anosmia.