Understanding Chronic Rhinitis: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Rhinitis can have many different causes and it may be acute or chronic. People who suffer from this condition often feel fatigued, have ear problems and red, watery eyes.

Identification

• Acute rhinitis consists of flare-ups of symptoms that last only a few days at a time and is usually caused by a virus. Chronic rhinitis consists of symptoms that last for months at a time and may be caused by allergies, structural problems or irritants of the nasal passages.

Allergic Rhinitis

• Allergic rhinitis is a chronic condition that can cause symptoms year-round. This type of rhinitis is often caused by indoor allergens such as pet dander, dust or mold.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also known as hay fever) can cause symptoms for several weeks or months at a time. This chronic condition is usually caused by an increase in pollen level in the air.

Vasomotor Rhinitis

• Vasomotor rhinitis is caused by environmental allergens such as smoke, air pollution, smog and car exhaust. If you live in an area that has these allergens, rhinitis can become chronic.

Treatment

• Avoiding allergens and triggers may help to reduce symptoms of chronic rhinitis. Your doctor may prescribe steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines and oral steroids to reduce your symptoms; allergy shots may be used to identify allergens and increase your tolerance to them.