Does Rhinitis Need Surgery?
Rhinitis is a medical condition that causes irritation and inflammation of the nasal passages, which can lead to sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. For some people, the condition can be severe enough to require medical intervention. While medications may be prescribed, some cases of rhinitis may require surgery in order to provide relief.
What is Rhinitis?
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the lining of the nasal passages. It is usually caused by allergens such as pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold, but can also be caused by a virus, bacteria, or certain medications. Symptoms of rhinitis include sneezing, a runny nose, stuffy nose, and post-nasal drip.
When is Surgery Necessary?
In some cases, medical treatments such as antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays are not enough to provide relief from rhinitis symptoms. In these cases, surgery may be recommended to open up the nasal passages and reduce inflammation.
Surgery is most often recommended for cases of chronic rhinitis, which is defined as rhinitis that lasts longer than 12 weeks. Surgery may also be recommended if a person’s symptoms are severe or if their quality of life is being impacted by the condition.
Types of Surgery for Rhinitis
Surgery for rhinitis can be divided into two categories: functional and reconstructive. Functional procedures are designed to improve airflow through the nasal passages by reducing inflammation and opening up the airways. These procedures include turbinate reduction, septoplasty, and endoscopic sinus surgery.
Reconstructive procedures are designed to improve the appearance of the nose. These procedures include rhinoplasty and septal perforation repair.
What to Expect After Surgery
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-operative care after undergoing surgery for rhinitis. This may include taking medications to reduce inflammation and swelling, and avoiding strenuous activities or exposure to allergens. Most people can expect to experience some degree of pain and discomfort after the procedure, but this should subside over time.
In most cases, surgery for rhinitis is successful in improving symptoms and providing relief. However, it is important to note that rhinitis is a chronic condition and may require ongoing medical treatment to keep it under control.