"Could I Be Suffering from Nasal Allergies or Sinusitis?"

Generally, patients are unable to determine whether they have rhinitis on their own. If there is suspicion of rhinitis, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and treatment under the guidance of a physician. The following are key points:

1. Symptoms:

Rhinitis is a disease caused by inflammatory reactions in the nasal mucosa or submucosal tissues, primarily manifested by symptoms such as rhinorrhea (runny nose), sneezing, and nasal congestion. Prolonged presence of these symptoms suggests rhinitis as a possible cause.

2. Physical Examination:

Visual inspection may reveal bilateral turbinate hypertrophy, which feels soft and smooth to the touch, along with decreased sense of smell. A nasal speculum examination can also reveal abundant secretions within the nasal cavity and the sound of fluid flowing out. Fiberoptic nasopharyngoscopy may be used to further ascertain the presence of pathological changes.

3. Laboratory Tests:

These include blood tests, allergen testing, and imaging exams, which aid in confirming rhinitis and its type. Blood tests monitor changes in white blood cell counts, assisting in differentiating bacterial from viral infections causing rhinitis. Allergen testing involves blood samples to identify specific allergens, guiding subsequent anti-allergy measures. CT scans help exclude other conditions that may present similar symptoms, such as sinusitis.

4. Medication:

For acute rhinitis, antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Capsules and Cefixime Tablets may be prescribed under medical supervision to control disease progression. Chronic rhinitis patients typically require topical application of glucocorticoids, e.g., Budesonide Inhalation Aerosol and Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray. When necessary, vasoconstrictors like Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride Nasal Drops and Ephedrine Hydrochloride Nasal Drops can alleviate nasal congestion.