Rhinitis is a condition where the nose, throat, ears, or eyes react to allergens or certain triggers by releasing histamine in the body. As a result, you may notice inflammatory symptoms such as sneezing or a runny nose. Allergic rhinitis affects more than 400 million individuals globally. In the United States, a significant portion of the adult population, ranging from 10% to 30%, is affected by this issue. Additionally, up to 40% of children in the country also experience its impact.
Find out what triggers rhinitis, how to recognize its symptoms, and the available treatment options below.
What Causes Rhinitis?
Rhinitis can be classified into three major types:
- Allergic rhinitis (AR) – refers to the inflammation of the nasal passages caused by exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, mold, or certain animals
- Infectious rhinitis – occurs due to an infection caused by viruses such as the common cold or flu
- Non-allergic, non-infectious rhinitis (NAR) – results from non-infectious factors such as changes in weather, hormonal changes, exposure to cigarette smoke or strong odors, or variations in barometric pressure
Common Rhinitis Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of rhinitis include:
- Sneezing
- Stuffy, itchy, or runny nose
- Irritated or itchy throat, eyes, or ears
- Nosebleeds
- Mouth breathing
- Ear infections
- Snoring
Treatment Options for Rhinitis
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can treat rhinitis by blocking the effects of histamine, the chemical that the body releases when it detects an allergen. Some common antihistamines include
Benadryl® (diphenhydramine) or Claritin® (loratadine).
Balloon Sinus Dilation
Balloon sinus dilation can be an effective treatment for rhinitis and many other sinus conditions. During this minimally invasive procedure, a small balloon is placed through the nose to dilate the sinus openings. This allows the nasal passages to drain, which can help to relieve pressure and inflammation.
ClariFix®
ClariFix treats chronic rhinitis by freezing a small portion of the inflamed area in the back of the nose. The freezing disrupts the over-signaling of hyperactive nerves, ultimately resulting in reduced nasal swelling, congestion, and running.
RhinAer®
RhinAer addresses chronic rhinitis by using low-temperature radiofrequency energy to disrupt the nerve fibers that trigger a runny nose. The procedure involves inserting a small, flexible tube into the nasal passageway through one of the nostrils.
Where to Find Rhinitis Treatment in Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, and Bakersfield, CA
At Del Rey MD, we are dedicated to providing exceptional medical care that is tailored to your needs and focused on delivering the best possible results. Our practice specializes in providing comprehensive care for all conditions related to the ear, nose, and throat.
Are you tired of dealing with the frustrating symptoms of rhinitis? We understand how challenging it can be to find relief. That’s why we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment with one of our highly skilled rhinitis specialists in Marina Del Rey, CA, by calling (310) 823-4444.