Rhinitis is a medical condition in which the nasal passages become inflamed, causing a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. It can be caused by allergies, viruses, or other irritants. While it is usually not serious, there are some potential dangers of rhinitis that should be noted.
Dangers of Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is the most common type of rhinitis, and it is caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment, such as pollen, dust, or animal dander. The main danger of this type of rhinitis is that it can lead to asthma. When a person has frequent or severe allergic rhinitis, their airways can become inflamed and narrowed, which can lead to asthma. In addition, long-term exposure to allergens can lead to chronic inflammation of the sinuses, which can cause sinus infections.
Dangers of Non-allergic Rhinitis
Non-allergic rhinitis can be caused by a variety of irritants, such as smoke, strong odors, and air pollution. The main danger of this type of rhinitis is that it can lead to chronic sinusitis. When the nasal passages are irritated and inflamed, they can become blocked, leading to an accumulation of mucus. This can cause sinus infections, which can be very painful and can lead to other health problems.
Dangers of Viral Rhinitis
Viral rhinitis is a type of rhinitis caused by a virus, such as the common cold or the flu. The main danger of this type of rhinitis is that it can make a person more susceptible to other illnesses. When a person has a weakened immune system due to a viral infection, they are more likely to get sick with other illnesses, such as bacterial infections or other viruses.
Rhinitis can be a nuisance, but it is usually not a serious condition. However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of rhinitis, as it can lead to other health problems. If you have any concerns about rhinitis, it is important to talk to your doctor.
