What causes persistent coughing in rhinitis, and how should it be managed?

Generally, persistent coughing associated with rhinitis may be caused by factors such as postnasal drip irritating the throat, nasal mucosal swelling leading to mouth breathing, allergic pharyngitis, acute bronchitis, or nasal polyps. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and under a doctor's guidance, improve symptoms through general management, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Postnasal drip irritating the throat: Rhinitis increases nasal mucosal secretions, which flow backward into the throat, continuously irritating the mucosa and triggering coughing. Nasal irrigation with normal saline twice daily helps remove excess secretions, and elevating the pillow slightly during sleep can reduce postnasal drip.

2. Nasal mucosal swelling causing mouth breathing: Inflammation in rhinitis leads to congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa, obstructing nasal airflow. This often causes involuntary mouth breathing, allowing dry air to directly irritate the throat and induce coughing. Follow medical advice to use budesonide nasal spray to relieve swelling, and use a humidifier indoors to maintain air humidity at 50%–60%.

3. Allergic pharyngitis: Rhinitis is often related to allergies, and allergens may simultaneously irritate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing allergic pharyngitis, characterized by throat itching and dry cough. Treatment should follow medical guidance using medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride drops, and montelukast sodium chewable tablets.

4. Acute bronchitis: Viruses or bacteria from rhinitis can spread to the bronchi, leading to acute bronchitis, resulting in coughing and sputum production. Medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefuroxime axetil tablets, and ambroxol hydrochloride oral solution may be used as directed by a physician. Drink plenty of warm water daily to help dilute and expel mucus.

5. Nasal polyps: Long-term inflammation from rhinitis may stimulate excessive growth of the nasal mucosa, forming nasal polyps. These polyps can block the nasal passages, worsening postnasal drip and continuously irritating the throat, thereby causing coughing. When drug therapy proves ineffective, endoscopic nasal polypectomy can be performed to remove the polyps, restore nasal patency, and reduce throat irritation.

In daily life, maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Stay warm and prevent colds to avoid exacerbating rhinitis symptoms. With proper care and treatment, coughing symptoms can be effectively relieved.