Rhinitis: Key facts

Rhinitis is a common respiratory related condition which involves the inflammation of the mucous membrane in the nose and in some cases the sinuses (rhino-sinusitis). Symptoms include:

• A runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• General tiredness

Rhinitis can be caused by inhalation of allergens such as pollen or dust (allergic rhinitis). Rhinitis is important because it is strongly associated with asthma.

In different countries, there will be seasonal variations in terms of pollen, which may exacerbate allergic rhinitis. Indoor allergens are also likely to be a factor, especially:

• Smoking
• Damp
• Mould
• Dust mites
• Pets

In low-resource settings, we might see low-cost alternative remedies, such as homeopathic or Ayurvedic medicines, as well as non drug-related solutions such as nasal wash or douching, which are also common.

You can find out more about allergic rhinitis in Allergic Rhinitis: A common problem, not to be sneezed at!