Chronic Rhinitis

Chronic rhinitis is a persistent inflammation or irritation of the nasal mucous membrane, resulting in a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. It can be triggered by various factors such as allergies, non-allergic irritants, or underlying medical conditions such as asthma or sinusitis.

At Kimball Health Services, our primary care providers and our board-certified ENT surgeon, Dr. William O. Dickey, provides compassionate and effective care to help you manage symptoms of chronic rhinitis.

Understanding Chronic Rhinitis

Chronic rhinitis, the inflammation of the inner lining of the nose, is characterized by symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks. This condition is distinct from acute rhinitis, which typically resolves within a few days to four weeks.

Chronic rhinitis can be broadly categorized into two main types based on the underlying cause:

Allergic Rhinitis: Commonly known as hay fever, this type of rhinitis is triggered by an allergic response to specific allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. During an allergic reaction, the body's immune system overreacts to the presence of these airborne allergens.
Nonallergic Rhinitis: This type encompasses any form of rhinitis that does not involve an immune response. It can be triggered by environmental factors such as air pollution, smoke (from tobacco, cannabis, or fire), or strong odors.

While allergic rhinitis is more prevalent, chronic nonallergic rhinitis accounts for about 25% of all rhinitis cases.

Symptoms of Chronic Rhinitis

Symptoms of chronic rhinitis include:

Sneezing
Stuffy nose
Runny nose
Itchy nose, throat, eyes, and ears
Nosebleeds
Clear drainage from the nose
Ear infections that keep coming back
Snoring
Breathing through the mouth
Tiredness
Sneezing and coughing

Causes of Chronic Rhinitis

There are many different causes of allergic and nonallergic chronic rhinitis. Moreover, structural issues, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, can also cause chronic symptoms.

Causes Of Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is caused when your immune system overreacts to airborne irritants, known as allergens. Allergens are tiny enough to be inhaled through the nose or mouth. For most people, these allergens are harmless, but for those with hay fever, the immune system mistakenly identifies them as threats.

In response, the immune system releases chemicals, primarily histamine, into your bloodstream. Histamine causes the mucous membranes in your nose, throat, and eyes to become inflamed and itchy as the body attempts to expel the allergen.

Common allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis include:

Dust mites
Pollen
Pet dander
Mold spores
Cockroaches’ saliva and waste
Food allergies

Causes Of Nonallergic Rhinitis

Nonallergic rhinitis occurs when the blood vessels in the nose expand, filling the nasal lining with blood and causing swelling, congestion, and mucus production. This condition arises from various triggers, leading to the same uncomfortable symptoms.

Common triggers of nonallergic rhinitis include:

Irritants in the air, like dust, smog, cigarette smoke, and chemical fumes
Shifts in temperature or humidity
Viral or bacterial infections
Consuming hot or spicy foods
Certain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and overuse of decongestant nose sprays
Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and birth control use
Overnight acid reflux

If not treated, chronic rhinitis can lead to noncancerous growths in the lining of the nose, sinusitis, and frequent middle ear infections.

Diagnosis & Treatment of Chronic Rhinitis

We will ask about your symptoms and medical history before performing a thorough physical examination. Dr. Dickey may use nasal endoscopy to look inside the nose by passing a thin tube with a camera through your nostrils. He may also ask for additional tests, such as blood or skin tests, to identify the underlying cause of chronic rhinitis.

Based on the underlying cause of rhinitis, treatment may include:

Medications: Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, or leukotriene modifiers to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
Allergy Management: Immunotherapy (allergy shots) or avoidance strategies for allergen-induced rhinitis.
Lifestyle Modifications: We may provide guidance on avoiding triggers, improving indoor air quality, and using nasal saline rinses.
Surgical Options: In cases of structural issues, procedures such as septoplasty or removal of nasal polyps may be considered.

Chronic Rhinitis Treatment at Kimball Health Services

At Kimball Health Services, we offer effective care to help you manage chronic rhinitis. Whether through medical management or surgical intervention, we strive to address the root cause of your symptoms and offer lasting relief.

As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We're here for you whenever you need us.