Chronic Perennial Rhinitis

Several conditions cause inflammation of the lining of the nose. This group of conditions is collectively called rhinitis and, although they have different causes, they all cause similar symptoms, including:

• Runny nose
• Blocked or clogged nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy nose
• Post-nasal drip or phlegm

Some people suffer from rhinitis only in the spring and summer. This type of rhinitis is called hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis. Those who suffer from rhinitis all year round are said to have perennial rhinitis, although symptoms can vary. Individuals with perennial rhinitis may believe that they catch frequent colds, one after the other. Diagnosing perennial rhinitis can be difficult, since a cold is a form of rhinitis, called viral rhinitis, and both perennial and viral rhinitis share the same symptoms.

Allergies can cause rhinitis. Therefore, a skin prick test is performed to determine if rhinitis is caused by an allergy, such as to cats, dogs, certain foods, fungal spores or dust mites.

If an allergen is found to be causing rhinitis, the most common first treatment is to avoid that allergen. A dietitian may be consulted if the allergy is to certain foods. Rinsing out the nasal passages with nasal sprays or solutions also can help rhinitis symptoms.