Rhinitis concept - Definition

The word rhinitis is of Greek origin.It comes from “rhinos”, integrated by “rhis” with the meaning nose, and by “itis”, a suffix that designates an inflammation, so we can define rhinitis as a condition inflammatory, typical of the nasal mucosa.

Who suffers from rhinitis has some or some of the following symptoms in his nose: itching, congestion, discharge or cold, usually accompanied by sneezing, watery eyes and cold.

When the rhinitis is acute, it appears intense but its duration does not reach half a year.If the duration is longer, there is talk of chronic rhinitis, which when lasting over time generates atrophy, sclerosis and therefore, smell fetid.

The causes of rhinitis may or may not be allergic, and in the latter case it may be caused by viruses, bacteria, cold humidity, hyperthyroidism or some medications such as antidepressants.Allergic rhinitis, caused by Allergen agents, such as dust, mold, pollen, animal hair or urine, can cause hypertrophy of the inferior turbinates, inserted into the palatine bone, and located inside the nostrils, with the function of filtering and moisten the air that will then reach the lungs.This hypertrophy causes rhinitis to become chronic.Rhinitis can also cause sinusitis, nasal polyps and migraines.

If rhinitis is not allergic, attack the cause; If it is allergic, and the allergen is pollen, it is also known as hay fever, characterized by its seasonality.

Rhinitis is diagnosed by laboratory tests, x-rays, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging; and treatment includes corticosteroids and antihistamines.