Rhinitis is a very common condition which occurs when the lining inside the nose becomes inflamed
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) responds well to allergen avoidance and medication such as steroid nose sprays and anti-histamines
Rhinitis is due to inflammation of the lining of the nose. Cells in the lining of the nose react to a stimulus by releasing histamine which in turn causes the inflammation. It is caused by bacteria or viruses (non-allergic rhinitis) or by allergens such as pollen (hay fever known as allergic rhinitis).
The most common cause of persistent allergic rhinitis is an allergy to house dust mite. Others include allergies to animal hair and pollen (hay fever). You are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis if you already have asthma or eczema.
First line treatment is a steroid nasal spray with or without antihistamine tablets. Sometimes desensitisation injections are required.
If the cause is unclear, your doctor might request an allergy blood test.
Surgery is sometimes required if you develop complications such as enlarged turbinates (bony structures inside the nose), sinusitis or nasal polyps.
