Rhinitis is a common condition that affects 30-60 million people worldwide. It can have a negative impact on your quality of life and can also contribute to comorbidities such as asthma, sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. The good news is that it’s treatable! Symptoms include nasal congestion and sneezing. Rhinitis can be caused by allergies, non-allergic triggers or a combination of both.비염치료
Allergic rhinitis is most often triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander and mold. The immune system responds to these allergens by releasing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies stimulate cells in the nose and throat to produce mucus that results in sneezing, itching, watery eyes and runny nose. Rhinitis can be classified as either intermittent or persistent depending on symptom duration and severity.
Over-the-counter antihistamines taken by mouth are an excellent treatment for allergic rhinitis. Many are available without a prescription and are safe for adults and children. Some antihistamines cause drowsiness and should not be used while driving or operating machinery. Nasal sprays with antihistamines can be helpful for some patients. These are typically more effective than antihistamine pills and should be used daily as directed on the package label. Decongestants are also an effective treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis. These medicines work by reducing congestion and shrinking swollen blood vessels. Leukotriene inhibitors are a new class of prescription medications that block leukotrienes, which are chemicals the body releases in response to an allergen and can exacerbate symptoms.
Treatment for Chronic Non-Allergic Rhinitis
For a diagnosis of chronic nonallergic rhinitis, your doctor will take a detailed history of your symptoms and perform a physical examination. If a structural problem is suspected, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, a CT scan may be performed. Nonallergic rhinitis can be triggered by a variety of factors, including irritants like perfumes, smoke and smog, certain foods, aging, medications such as antidepressants or oral contraceptives, changes in weather, hormones or other health conditions.
If the cause of your rhinitis is determined to be allergic, your doctor will recommend allergy skin or blood tests to determine which allergens you are sensitized to. This will then guide your treatment plan.
For irritant-induced rhinitis, treatment focuses on avoiding the triggers that trigger your symptoms. This includes a daily routine of nasal irrigation with a Neti pot or bulb syringe, keeping windows closed during high-pollen seasons, using a humidifier and utilizing HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners. Practicing these habits can greatly improve your symptoms and reduce your dependence on medication. If these treatments don’t relieve your symptoms, a consultation with an ENT expert can be beneficial. Excel ENT can help you find the treatment that works best for your individual needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!라경찬한의원