Rhinitis: causes and treatment

Rinitis: treat or go away?

Rinitis, better known as a runny nose, is one of the most common upper respiratory conditions that almost everyone has experienced. It can be either a temporary reaction to irritants (such as dust or cold) or a symptom of serious conditions such as allergies or infectious diseases. A runny nose often seems harmless, but improper or no treatment can lead to complications including sinusitis and chronic rhinitis.Let's look at what rhinitis is, what types exist and how to treat it.

What is rhinitis?

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose. There are two main types of rhinitis:
- Acute. Starts abruptly and is often accompanied by other cold symptoms such as fever and sore throat.
- Chronic. Can persist for weeks or even months, and it often requires more complex treatment.

Main symptoms of rhinitis

These vary depending on its type and cause, but the main ones include: - nasal discharge (watery or thick)
- nasal congestion
- sneezing
- itching and irritation in the nose
- headache
- decreased sense of smell

Why does rhinitis occur?

The most common factors include:

- Infections. Rhinoviruses, which cause the common cold, are most often responsible for acute rhinitis. Bacterial infections can join as a complication and cause a more severe form of the disease.
- Allergies. Allergic rhinitis occurs in response to allergens. It is often seasonal, but can also be year-round.
- Environmental irritants. Polluted air, tobacco smoke, and chemicals can cause inflammation of the nasal mucosa and the development of chronic rhinitis.

How to treat rhinitis?

These are the main therapies used to combat this condition.

- Saline solutions. To gently cleanse the nasal passages, moisturize the mucous membrane and remove excess mucus.
- Antihistamines. To block the body's reaction to allergens. They are taken only according to the scheme prescribed by a doctor.
- Vasoconstrictor drops. For symptomatic relief of congestion. Such drops can be used for no more than 5 days.

With the viral nature of rhinitis, the main treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms, as such infections usually go away on their own. The main methods include drinking plenty of water, rest, taking antipyretics (if necessary) and nasal rinsing.
If rhinitis is complicated by a bacterial infection, antibiotics prescribed by a doctor may be required.
Can rhinitis be avoided?
In some cases, prevention can be effective.

Some recommendations to help reduce the risk of developing this condition:
- Hyaluronic acid preparations. The active substance provides moisture retention, rapid healing and prevention of drying of the nasal mucosa. The original preparation Olifrin has a natural composition and in addition to hyaluronic acid contains vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant, indispensable in infectious rhinitis.
- avoid contact with allergens as much as possible in case of allergic rhinitis
- humidify the air in the room up to 40-60%
- support immunity through proper diet, vitamin intake, regimen, balance of physical activity and rest
- wash hands, especially during outbreaks of viral diseases, and avoid contact with infected people