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Customer question:

I think I have an inflammation of the nasal mucosa. What are the symptoms, and what can I do? Anonymous customer's question

Pharmacist's answer:

Inflammation of the nasal mucosa is called rhinitis (when an allergen provokes this type of reaction, it is called allergic rhinitis). Symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose, and an itchy nose caused by irritation, the presence of an allergen, and nasal congestion. There are two types of rhinitis: allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to specific, non-infectious particles such as plant pollen, molds, dust mites, animal dander, industrial chemicals (including tobacco smoke), food, medicine, and insect poison.

Non-allergic rhinitis does not depend on the presence of IgE and is not the result of an allergic reaction. However, cigarette smoke, other pollutants, strong odors, alcoholic beverages, and cold can trigger symptoms. Other causes may include nasal congestion, deviated septum, infections, and overuse of medications such as decongestants.

See a doctor if the symptoms of (allergic) rhinitis disturb your sleep, prevent you from carrying out daily activities or negatively affect your work or schooling. Diagnosing (allergic) rhinitis is usually based on your symptoms and any triggers you may have noticed. If the cause of your condition is uncertain, you may be referred for allergy testing.

It is difficult to avoid potential allergens altogether, but you can reduce your exposure to a specific allergen that you know or suspect triggers your (allergic) rhinitis. This will undoubtedly help improve your symptoms.

If your condition is mild, you can also reduce symptoms by taking over-the-counter medications, such as non-sedating antihistamines, and especially by regularly rinsing your nasal passages with saline (salt water solution) to prevent nasal irritation.

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