Causes of Chronic Rhinitis

Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 20, 2024
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The causes of chronic rhinitis are quite complex and not due to a single factor. It often arises from multiple factors after prolonged and repeated acute attacks, leading to chronic inflammatory changes. These changes primarily affect the nasal mucosa, with the most common causes including: First, prolonged and repeated bouts of acute rhinitis that are not thoroughly treated can lead to chronic rhinitis. This also includes some chronic diseases of the nasal cavity and sinuses, such as congenital deviation of the nasal septum, meaning the middle part of the nose is crooked, which disrupts drainage and airflow in the nasal cavity. Thus, when there is an acute inflammation, the secretions cannot be drained timely, eventually causing chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Second, inflammation of nearby tissues and organs can lead to chronic rhinitis, such as chronic tonsillitis and adenoid hyperplasia during childhood. These chronic inflammations can cause secretions in the nasopharyngeal area to irritate and contribute to the chronic inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane, impacting each other. Third, occupational and environmental factors play a role. The living and working environment, along with lifestyle habits, greatly influence the incidence of chronic rhinitis. People who frequently smoke or drink alcohol are more susceptible to this condition. Additionally, if the work or living environment is polluted, dirty, dusty, or exposed to other harmful gases or chemicals, it may also lead to chronic rhinitis. Therefore, the formation of chronic rhinitis involves multifaceted and multiple causes, and the specific reasons should be analyzed based on different patients.

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The difference between sinusitis and rhinitis

Rhinitis and sinusitis are common inflammations in our nasal area, frequently occurring and widely prevalent. Rhinitis primarily involves inflammation of the nasal mucosa, while sinusitis specifically refers to inflammation in the sinus cavities and their mucous membranes. These two have different locations of onset. Furthermore, rhinitis is more commonly seen clinically compared to sinusitis, which is less common relative to rhinitis. Moreover, rhinitis is generally treated with medication and seldom requires surgical intervention. In contrast, sinusitis may also require surgical treatment besides medication. Thus, the main differences between them primarily include these aspects. Overall, the fundamental difference between rhinitis and sinusitis lies in their different locations of onset.

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Can people with chronic rhinitis smoke?

It is advised not to smoke for chronic rhinitis, as smoking can be irritating to the nasal mucosa, inferior nasal concha, and other structures in the nasal cavity. This is because cigarettes contain a lot of irritating substances that can directly stimulate the nasal mucosa. It can easily trigger an attack of rhinitis or exacerbate existing inflammation, hence smoking is not recommended. It is also suggested to avoid alcohol, keep the nose moist, avoid contact with irritants, and consider using physiological seawater or saline to rinse the nasal cavity. Additionally, treatments can include oral traditional Chinese medicine and nasal spray medications. Generally, it is a common disease that can be effectively controlled and managed with standard treatment. (The use of medication should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Does cold medicine treat rhinitis?

Colds are mainly caused by the infection of our upper respiratory tract by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, etc. Rhinitis is usually related to infections, and a cold can trigger rhinitis. However, other factors, such as allergies or temperature changes, can also produce symptoms similar to a cold. Therefore, cold medicines often contain medications for treating rhinitis, so some patients experiencing rhinitis may find cold medicines to be effective. However, besides containing rhinitis medications, cold medicines also include fever reducers and vasoconstrictive cough suppressants. Thus, to treat rhinitis, it is still better to use proper rhinitis medications instead of substituting them with cold medicines. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor to avoid self-medication.)

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Causes of Seasonal Rhinitis

Seasonal rhinitis, also known as allergic rhinitis, is considered an autoimmune disease, and its onset may be related to genetic factors. If direct relatives have allergic rhinitis, the likelihood of developing allergic rhinitis is relatively higher. Some patients are also related to environmental factors, such as frequent exposure to dust, pollen, and seafood, which also increases the likelihood of triggering allergic rhinitis. Clinical symptoms are numerous, with common ones including repeated itchy nose, runny clear nasal discharge, and sneezing. In terms of treatment, oral medications and nasal spray medications for anti-allergy treatment are commonly used, and regular follow-ups are needed to observe the effects. (Medication use should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Chronic rhinitis headache symptoms

Chronic rhinitis is a relatively common clinical disease with various symptoms. Some patients may experience headaches, which are mainly caused by inflammatory reactions. It could also be due to poor ventilation in the nasal cavity, leading to headaches. Generally, it is accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, dizziness, and there might also be bloody nasal discharge or nasal drip. Therefore, upon noticing these symptoms, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) for relevant diagnostic tests to clarify the specific condition. Most patients can choose oral medications or nasal sprays for treatment and require regular follow-up to observe the effects. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)