Chronic rhinitis is a condition that is characterized by inflammation in the nose. It is estimated that over 30 million people in the United States have chronic rhinitis. The symptoms of chronic rhinitis can range from mild to severe and can include a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and postnasal drip.
Diagnosis of Chronic Rhinitis
In order to diagnose chronic rhinitis, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order tests, such as a nasal endoscopy or a CT scan, to look for any underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
Criteria for Chronic Rhinitis
The criteria for diagnosing chronic rhinitis are as follows:
• Symptoms must be present for at least 12 weeks in the past year.
• Symptoms must be present for at least 4 consecutive weeks during that time.
• At least two of the following symptoms must be present: congestion, rhinorrhea (runny nose), sneezing, or postnasal drip.
• The symptoms must not be due to a known cause such as allergies or a viral infection.
• The symptoms must not be due to another medical condition such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, or an anatomical abnormality.
Treatment for Chronic Rhinitis
Treatment for chronic rhinitis depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal steroids may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Other treatments may include lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers, or more invasive treatments such as surgery.
