Guide To The Causes Of Chronic Rhinitis

Infections

Another common cause of chronic rhinitis is a viral infection, such as the common cold or the flu, resulting in a runny or drippy nose. Colds and allergies are typically the most common causes of rhinitis. Just as allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergies or weather changes, nonallergic rhinitis is caused by a viral infection, along with other irritants a patient may become exposed to. Rhinitis can be acute (short-lived) or chronic (long-lasting). Acute rhinitis is generally the result of a viral infection, while chronic rhinitis usually occurs with chronic sinusitis.

Symptoms of acute viral rhinitis consist of a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, postnasal drip, a cough, and low-grade fever; essentially the common cold. Stuffiness can be treated with decongestants such as a nasal spray, which cause the blood vessels of the nasal mucous membrane to narrow or constrict, easing symptoms for the patient. Chronic rhinitis can also be caused by inflammation or a viral infection, as it is usually an extension of acute rhinitis.

Foods & Beverages

Nonallergic and chronic rhinitis can also be caused by a variety of foods and beverages, especially when it comes to hot or spicy foods. Specifically, soup can cause an individual to have a runny nose due to its temperature, and spicy foods due to its use of peppers and other ingredients that can inflame the membranes in the nose cavity. Alcoholic beverages, especially beer and wine, may also cause trigger the membranes in the nose to swell, resulting in nasal congestion. In addition to alcohol, spicy and hot foods to avoid, individuals may want to avoid certain foods such as apples, bananas, melons, zucchini, corn, celery, preservatives and additives, almonds, hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds. These foods all vary and depend on the type of rhinitis an individual may be experiencing, as well as what their allergies or triggers are.