How should rhinitis be treated?
Disease description:
I've come down with rhinitis; my nose is always congested, and I'm sneezing and having a runny nose, which has already affected my normal daily life. How should I treat it?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lu Cheng
Rhinitis can be treated through daily management, physical therapy, medication, surgical intervention, and other methods.
In daily life, avoid contact with substances that may cause allergic reactions, maintain good indoor air circulation, pay attention to dietary management, and avoid consuming spicy foods. Nasal irrigation using normal saline nasal sprays can help remove nasal secretions and allergens.
Regarding medication treatment, for allergic rhinitis, antihistamines can relieve symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose; corticosteroid nasal sprays can reduce inflammation; leukotriene receptor antagonists may be effective for some patients. For infectious rhinitis, antibiotics may be required after a bacterial infection is diagnosed. Local decongestants can be used short-term to relieve nasal congestion but should not be used long-term.
Follow medical advice for nasal drops or nasal spray administration, such as budesonide nasal spray or fluticasone furoate nasal spray, which can alleviate symptoms of rhinitis. When medication proves ineffective or provides insufficient relief, such as in cases of nasal polyps or atrophic rhinitis, surgical treatment may be considered.
If any physical discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.
