Rhinitis is when a reaction occurs that causes nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and
itching. Most types of rhinitis are caused by an inflammation and are associated with symptoms in the eyes, ears, or throat. There are several types of rhinitis. The most common are acute rhinitis, which is usually caused by a viral illness, allergic or seasonal rhinitis, and nonallergic or year-round rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is caused when allergens in the air trigger the release of histamine in the body. Histamine causes itching, swelling, and fluid to build up in the fragile linings
of the nasal passages, sinuses, and eyelids. The most common causes of rhinitis are: Pollen given off by trees, grass, and weeds Dust mites Mold Cockroach waste Animal dander Fumes and odors Temperature Hormonal changes Certain medicines and overuse of topical nose sprays Changes in the environment Smoke
Certain foods or spices People with asthma are at a higher risk for rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is a common problem that may be linked to asthma. However, this link is not fully understood. Experts think that since rhinitis makes it hard to breathe through the nose, it is harder for the nose to work normally. Breathing through the mouth does not warm, filter, or humidify the air before it enters the lungs. This can make asthma
symptoms worse. Controlling allergic rhinitis may help control asthma in some people. Symptoms of rhinitis include:
How is rhinitis diagnosed?Most often, the diagnosis is made by your healthcare provider based on an in-depth history and physical exam. In addition to the above signs, the healthcare provider may find:
How is rhinitis treated?Avoidance of the allergens that are causing the problem is the best treatment. The symptoms of rhinitis sometimes look like other conditions or medical problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Treatments for rhinitis may include:
Can rhinitis be prevented?Preventive measures for avoiding allergic rhinitis include:
Key points about rhinitis
Pediatric OtolaryngologyOur pediatric otolaryngologists provide compassionate and comprehensive care for children with common and rare ear, nose, and throat conditions. As part of the Johns Hopkins Children's Center, you have access to all the specialized resources of a children's hospital. Allergic rhinitis is where your nose gets irritated by something you're allergic to, such as pollen, causing sneezing and other symptoms. For most people it's easy to treat with medicines from a pharmacist. Common symptoms of allergic rhinitis are similar to a cold and include: This usually happens within minutes of coming into contact with something you're allergic to. Allergic rhinitis is
caused by an allergic reaction. Common allergies include: You're more
likely to get an allergy if people in your family also have them or conditions such as eczema and asthma. Information: Allergic rhinitis is different from non-allergic rhinitis, which is caused by things like having a
cold, very hot or cold temperatures and humidity. You can often treat allergic rhinitis without seeing a GP. If you can, try to avoid the things that trigger your allergies. A pharmacist can also advise you about medicines that can help, such as: You can buy nasal sprays without a prescription, but
they should not be used for more than a week as this can make your symptoms worse. Find a pharmacy If you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better. Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
Treatments for allergic rhinitis from a GPIf pharmacy medicines do not help ease your allergic rhinitis symptoms, a GP may prescribe a different medicine, such as prescription steroid nasal sprays or antihistamines. You may be referred to a specialist for further tests and treatment if it's not clear what's causing your symptoms or they're severe. Preventing allergic rhinitisIf you have allergic rhinitis, it's not always possible to avoid the things you're allergic to. But there are steps you can take to try to help reduce your symptoms. Do
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Page last reviewed: 30 May 2022 Why does my throat feel itchy and my nose stuffy?Nonallergic rhinitis is inflammation in the nose, eyes, and throat from nonallergic sources such as fumes and odors, hormonal changes, and smoke. Symptoms of rhinitis include sneezing, stuffy and runny nose, nosebleeds, and itchy throat, eyes, and ears.
What helps a stuffy nose and itching?If you're experiencing nasal congestion, here are some simple ways to get relief:. Steam. There are many ways to use steam to clear your nasal passages. ... . Saline spray. A salt-water solution can be dispersed into your nasal passages to help moisturize the area draw out fluid. ... . Hydrate. ... . Consult an allergy doctor.. |