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Like sinusitis, sinus rhinitis is a respiratory condition which can make life miserable for its victim. Having this condition means that there is inflammation in the mucus membranes of the nose. It manifests itself through symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion and itchiness felt in the eyes, ears, nose, throat and roof of the mouth. This condition is not life-threatening. However, it should not be ignored as it can keep you from performing normally and may lead to serious complications.
Sinus Rhinitis: Causes and Types
Unlike sinusitis, sinus rhinitis is just a temporary condition for most people it usually clears up on its own after a few days. But for others, it can also be a chronic problem which recurs often. The main culprit that triggers this condition is exposure to irritants or allergens (substances that provoke an allergic response). Most common allergens include pollens from trees, grasses and weeds, animal dander, dust mites, cockroach debris, and molds.
Rhinitis is often classified into three types allergic rhinitis, non-allergic rhinitis and infectious rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is caused by an allergic reaction due to exposure to seasonal or perennial allergens. Seasonal allergens are those occurring only on a specific season, like pollen which is common on spring or fall. Perennial allergens, on the other hand, occur all year-round, like dust or animal fur.
Another type of rhinitis is non-allergic rhinitis, which is not caused by allergic triggers. The condition is instead brought about by different reasons such as hormonal changes, overuse of topical nasal sprays, or structural abnormalities like a deviated septum.
Lastly, the most common of the three is infectious rhinitis. This form is also known as the common cold and is caused by a cold virus trapped inside the inflamed nose and sinuses.
5 Easy Steps to Get Rid of Sinus Rhinitis
Whatever type of sinus rhinitis you suffer from, it is important to take steps in getting better and preventing the condition. Here are some effective ways of treating sinus rhinitis:
1. Avoid exposure to allergens. If you are allergic to pollens or dust, stay indoors as much as possible. But if the allergens are present at home, such as animal dander, avoid contact with your pets or confine yourself inside a room away from them. Keep your home clean from dust and molds, which can also trigger allergies.
2. Practice proper hygiene. Wash your hands and face thoroughly to get rid of allergens. Avoid rubbing your nose and eyes as these are areas most receptive to allergens. When coming from outdoors during allergy season, take a quick shower and change your clothing as soon as you get home.
3. Take over the counter drug medications such as antihistamines to counter the allergies. These drugs are fast acting and effective in eliminating itchiness, sneezing and congestion. You can also make use of mint lozenges, vapor rub and other natural menthol products to open up the nasal passages. Use of perfume, lotions, candles and other scents should be avoided.
4. Make use of nasal nebulizers an advanced treatment method for individuals suffering from nasal allergies. Using a nebulizer, medication is inhaled through the nose, travels deep inside the nasal cavities, and deposits itself directly into the inflamed areas.
5. Medicated irrigation, or simply called nasal washing, is another treatment recommended for those suffering from sinus rhinitis. As the term implies, this treatment entails washing of the nasal passages with a saline medicated solution. This saturates the nasal lining and washes out unwanted particles out of the sinuses.
