What is the best treatment for sneezing and runny nose caused by rhinitis?
There is generally no single best treatment for sneezing and runny nose caused by rhinitis. Common approaches may include lifestyle adjustments, avoiding allergens, nasal irrigation, taking antihistamine medications, and using topical nasal sprays. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation and receive symptom-based treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific measures are analyzed as follows:
1. Lifestyle adjustments: Lifestyle modifications form the foundation of rhinitis management. Improving daily habits and enhancing physical health—such as maintaining good indoor ventilation and eating a light diet while avoiding spicy or irritating foods—can effectively reduce rhinitis symptoms.
2. Avoiding allergens: For allergic rhinitis, identifying specific allergens through allergy testing and minimizing exposure to known triggers can help control symptoms.
3. Nasal irrigation: Using normal saline or specialized rinsing solutions, the liquid is introduced into the nasal cavity via a nasal irrigator or spray device and then gently expelled. Proper technique and appropriate frequency should be observed during irrigation.
4. Antihistamine medications: For allergic rhinitis, oral antihistamines such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or montelukast sodium chewable tablets can help relieve symptoms.
5. Topical nasal sprays: These act directly on the nasal mucosa to quickly alleviate symptoms. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications such as budesonide nasal spray, ephedrine hydrochloride nasal drops, or mometasone furoate nasal spray to manage their condition.
In daily life, it is important to maintain healthy habits, avoid long-term smoking, and engage in moderate exercise such as jogging or hiking, which benefits overall health.