What is Chronic Rhinitis?
Some patients experience nasal symptoms such as congestion, runny nose and sneezing in response to irritants as opposed to allergens. These irritants can include:
- cigarette smoke
- perfumes
- car exhaust
- strong odors (cleaners, scented candles, etc.)
- changes in the weather.
These elements are not considered allergens because they do not cause an immune system reaction. Instead, they directly irritate the mucous membranes. As a result, they will not produce a reaction during skin testing. Patients with this problem are diagnosed with a sensitivity, referred to as perennial non-allergic rhinitis, or chronic rhinitis.
Chronic Rhinitis can occur in combination with Allergic Rhinitis, and many of the same medications are used to treat both conditions.