Treatment for chronic rhinitis uses several methods that range from medications to individual and natural preventive measures to prevent the onset of allergic attacks.
Before any treatment, the otorhinolaryngologist should be consulted, so that a specific intervention plan is made for each patient's case.
Treatment for chronic rhinitis may include:
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines are the drugs most often used to treat chronic rhinitis. The coughing and sneezing attacks of the patients are considerably reduced. Corticosteroids: Also known as cortisone, corticosteroids are more effective than antihistamines, acting as an anti-inflammatory and decreasing the symptoms of the disease. Anticholinergics: This type of medication reduces runny nose, but has no effect on the other symptoms of chronic rhinitis. Decongestants: Decongestants provide better breathing, as they reduce nasal congestion, but this type of medication should be used with caution, due to side effects such as increased pressure, insomnia and headaches. Nasal lavages: Nasal cleaning is essential and can be done with saline. This technique decreases irritation of the nasal mucosa and the proliferation of bacteria. Surgery: In the most severe cases, such as permanent nasal obstructions, the most appropriate treatment is surgery, which may consist of removing the injured tissue.
Preventive measures to avoid chronic rhinitis attacks include simple care, which is crucial for the subject's quality of life, such as: Keeping the room clean and airy, maintaining good nasal hygiene, avoiding any type of pollution such as smoke from the cigarette or car exhaust, for example.
