Page Summary
- Rhinitis is inflammation or irritation of the nasal lining and may be allergic or non-allergic.
- Common symptoms include nasal blockage, runny nose and postnasal drainage; sneezing and itching are more typical of allergic rhinitis.
- Non-allergic rhinitis can be triggered by factors such as weather changes, cold air, certain foods or hormonal changes, and both types can occur together.
- Treatment depends on the cause and symptoms and may include saline rinses, nasal steroid or antihistamine sprays, and other targeted treatment.
Allergic & Non-Allergic Rhinitis
Rhinitis is inflammation or irritation of the lining of the nose that can cause congestion and a runny nose.
Allergic rhinitis happens on exposure to allergens such as dust or pollen, and is often accompanied by sneezing and itching.
Non-allergic rhinitis is not caused by allergy. Symptoms may be triggered by things such as weather changes or cold air, certain foods, and hormonal changes such as pregnancy, and it can become more common with age.
Some patients have both allergic and non-allergic causes of their symptoms at the same time.
Common symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Runny nose
- Postnasal drainage
In allergic rhinitis there may also be:
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose or eyes
How is it diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on your symptoms, medical history and clinical examination. If allergy is a possibility, an allergy test may be requested to help identify the triggers.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of rhinitis and which symptoms bother you most.
Options may include:
- Saline nasal rinses
- Steroid nasal sprays, to reduce inflammation and congestion
- Antihistamine nasal sprays such as azelastine, used alone or with a steroid spray in a combined spray such as Dymista
- Ipratropium spray (Atrovent) when a runny nose is the main symptom, particularly in some cases of non-allergic rhinitis
- Allergy medicines if allergy is part of the problem
- Avoiding known triggers where possible
Decongestant sprays are not recommended for long periods, because repeated use can leave the nose more blocked once they wear off — a condition known as rhinitis from decongestant sprays.
What You Can Do at Home for Allergic Rhinitis
General nasal symptoms
Use a saline nasal rinse once or twice daily when symptoms are bothersome, especially after significant allergen exposure.
Smoke and strong smells
Avoid cigarette smoke, including sitting near people who are smoking, and stay away from incense/bukhoor or strong fragrances if you notice they trigger your symptoms.
Pollen
If you notice your symptoms worsen at a particular time of year, try to reduce exposure to the things that trigger them during that period, such as spending long spells outdoors or leaving windows open for long periods. Showering and changing clothes after being outdoors may help if you notice it makes symptoms worse.
Dust mites
Wash bedding regularly in hot water and consider allergy-proof mattress and pillow covers. Reduce dust and unnecessary fabric-heavy furnishings in the bedroom. If practical, replace bedroom carpets with hard flooring. Dust regularly and vacuum regularly.
Pets
If you are allergic to a pet, reducing exposure can help. Ideally, keep the pet out of the bedroom and away from upholstered furniture where you spend a lot of time.
Mold and dampness
If you notice mold in the home — such as black or green patches on walls or ceilings in damp areas — address the source of the moisture or water leak and clean the mold. Air fresheners or sprays may mask the smell, but they do not treat the cause of the problem.
Dust and airborne allergens
An air purifier with a HEPA filter may help reduce dust and some airborne allergens, especially in the bedroom.