Rhinitis is a common condition in which the nose becomes inflamed. It is often caused by an allergic reaction to particles in the air such as pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander and chemicals such as fumes or smoke. It can also be triggered by certain medications, hormonal changes, and smoking. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes and throat, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headaches, nasal discharge and sniffling.비염치료병원
Allergic rhinitis may be treated with antihistamines taken by mouth or intranasal sprays. Some of these medicines can cause sleepiness so you should not drive or operate machinery after taking them. The newer second-generation oral antihistamines (such as desloratadine [Aerius], fexofenadine [Allegra], loratadine [Claritin] and cetirizine [Reactine]) are particularly effective in controlling sneezing, itching and rhinorrhea for those with allergic rhinitis. The older first-generation sedating antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine [Benedryl], chlorpheniramine maleate [Chlor-Tripolon] and clemastine [Tavist-1]) are less effective but can be helpful in reducing symptoms for some people.
Skin prick testing can identify specific allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis. This test involves placing a drop of a commercial extract of an allergen on the forearm or back and pricking it to introduce the extract into the skin. The presence of a wheal and flare response is an indication that the person is allergic to the tested allergen. The results from this test can be used to guide subsequent allergy testing and treatment.
A thorough history and physical examination is important in the diagnosis of rhinitis. A positive family history of rhinitis is usually indicative of a genetic tendency to develop the disease. Physical examination typically includes evaluation of the nose, ears, chin, posterior oropharynx (area at the back of the throat), skin and chest.
It is often useful to have patients try over-the-counter rhinitis treatments before seeking medical attention. The effectiveness of a medication in relieving a patient’s rhinitis symptoms can provide valuable information that helps to narrow the diagnostic options for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. In particular, the ability of patients to achieve symptom control with the newer second-generation oral antihistamines is very suggestive of an allergic etiology. The ability of patients to use the older first-generation sedating antihistamines is less predictive since these medications are not recommended for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
Nonallergic rhinitis can be treated with decongestants or combination of antihistamine and decongestants. It is important to use decongestants sparingly because they can lead to rebound congestion (a return of a stuffy nose when the medicine wears off). The most effective medications for nonallergic chronic rhinitis are nasal steroids and intranasal antihistamines. Nasal irrigation using saline solution (available at drug stores or made at home with 1 cup of warm water, half a teaspoon (3 grams) of salt and a pinch of baking soda) is very helpful. In addition, keeping windows closed during peak pollen times and avoiding known irritants (such as cigarette smoke, odors and chemical fumes) can help improve the symptoms of this type of rhinitis.라경찬한의원