Are you one of the millions who are no stranger to rhinitis? You are, if you often experience frequent sneezing; runny nose (increased production of clear nasal secretion); nasal congestion; watery eyes; and itching in the eyes, ears, nose or throat.

Matching TYPE

This condition called rhinitis can be broadly categorized into two types - allergic and non-allergic. Furthermore, depending upon the onset of symptoms, allergic rhinitis could be seasonal or perennial. "Seasonal" applies if the symptoms are likely to occur only on particular times of the year such as when pollen counts are elevated. Tree pollens are rampant during early spring, while grass releases pollens on late spring or early summer. Weed pollens, such as ragweed, are common during late summer and fall. On the other hand, you’ve got the "perennial" type if your rhinitis symptoms occur throughout the year. Allergens associated with perennial rhinitis include dust, dust mites, molds, cockroaches and animal dander.

The other general type of rhinitis - "non-allergic", can be classified as "infectious" if it was caused by a virus like the common colds; "vasomotor" if rhinitis was set-off by cold weather, smoke, etc. causing the blood vessels in your nose to inflame due to oversensitivity; "atrophic" if infection or probably nasal surgery cause the nasal membranes to atrophy; and lastly, "rhinitis medicamentosa" or rebound congestion, if the rhinitis was caused by the prolonged use of nasal decongestants.

Obtaining Relief

Living with rhinitis can affect one’s quality of life. It can put a limitation on the activities of an individual. Furthermore, chronic rhinitis gives the person a sensation that he seems always tired and lacks energy.

Inevitably, the solution to get rid of rhinitis is to minimize or if possible, avoid contact with the triggering allergens or other triggering factors. But when that proves to be impractical or even impossible, there are some ways you could do to keep the rhinitis button off. Aside from some medications you can take, you can also try nasal irrigation. It is done by allowing an irrigating solution (saline is recommended) to flow from one nostril and out on the other. It may seem a bit uncomfortable at first, in fact it takes a bit of practice to get used to the head position that will facilitate effective irrigation, but definitely, it’s worth it. Nasal irrigation washes away dust, pollen, traces of chemical irritants and even infectious microorganisms that lodge into your nasal passages. Nasal irrigation can be done safely as often as needed, with no fears of side effects. Experts even recommend it to be a part of daily hygiene.

Irrigation can also be used as a method for delivering rhinitis medications. Using an irrigator like SinusActive from Sinus Dynamics, the medications your doctor prescribed for you can be directly applied to your nasal passages to give you prompt relief from your rhinitis, and even sinusitis and allergy symptoms.