RHINITIS THAT REDUCES QUALITY OF LIFE

Rhinitis that reduces quality of life

Rhinitis that reduces quality of life

Blog Article

Rhinitis is a general term for various symptoms caused by inflammation of the nasal mucosa. In addition to a simple stuffy nose and runny nose, it can be accompanied by various discomforts. It can be broadly divided into allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis .


1. Allergic Rhinitis


It's as if our bodies recognize certain substances as enemies and overreact. These substances are called **allergens**. Some typical allergens are as follows:




  • Dust mites: Very small bugs that live in indoor dust, and their feces or dead bodies can cause allergic reactions.

  • Pollen: Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds in the spring, summer, and fall is the main cause. It is the main culprit of seasonal allergic rhinitis.

  • Animal hair and dander: Pet hair and dander that falls from the skin can also be allergens.

  • Mold: Mold spores, which thrive in moist environments, can sometimes cause allergic reactions.

  • Cockroaches: Cockroach secretions and carcasses can also act as allergens.


When exposed to allergic rhinitis, our body produces a specific antibody called **IgE (Immunoglobulin E)**, and when this antibody meets the allergen again, a chemical substance such as histamine is secreted. This histamine causes the following symptoms.




  • Clear nasal discharge: A runny nose is characteristic.

  • Nasal congestion: The nasal mucosa swells, making breathing difficult.

  • Sneezing: You sneeze repeatedly and in fits and starts.

  • Itchy nose: In addition to your nose, you may also feel itchy in your eyes, throat, and ears.

  • Tearful: Your eyes may become bloodshot or watery.


Allergic rhinitis is known to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If you have a family history of the disease, you may be at a higher risk.


2. Non-allergic Rhinitis


This refers to cases where inflammation of the nasal mucosa occurs due to various factors, regardless of allergens. In many cases, the cause is not clear, but the following factors may have an effect.




  • Vasomotor rhinitis: Symptoms may appear when the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa overreact to changes in temperature or humidity, strong odors, cigarette smoke, stress, etc. It may also appear after meals.

  • Drug-induced rhinitis: This may occur as a side effect of certain medications (e.g., blood pressure medications, birth control pills, long-term use of decongestants, etc.).

  • Hormonal rhinitis: Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, menstruation, and thyroid dysfunction can affect the nasal mucosa.

  • Occupational rhinitis: It can be caused by exposure to chemicals or dust in certain occupational environments.

  • Chronic infections: Chronic nasal or sinus infections can cause or worsen rhinitis.

  • Nasal structural abnormalities: Structural abnormalities of the nose, such as a deviated nasal septum, can cause rhinitis symptoms.


Symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis may be similar to those of allergic rhinitis, but sneezing and itchy nose are less common, and nasal congestion and runny nose are more common. The runny nose may be clear or sticky.


Diagnosis of rhinitis


To accurately diagnose rhinitis, you can undergo the following tests at the hospital:




  • Medical history and physical examination: Your doctor will ask you detailed questions about your symptoms, when they occurred, your family history, etc., and will also examine the inside of your nose.

  • Skin Prick Test: A small amount of various allergen solutions is dropped on the skin and the reaction is observed to determine which substance you are allergic to.

  • Blood test (IgE test): Checks for allergies by measuring total IgE levels in the blood or levels of IgE antibodies to specific allergens.

  • Nasal airway testing: Objectively assesses the degree of nasal congestion by measuring the amount and speed of air breathed through the nose.

  • Nasal endoscopy: An endoscope with a tiny camera is inserted into the nose to directly examine the condition of the nasal mucosa.


Treatment and management of rhinitis


Treatment of rhinitis focuses on 스포츠토토사이트 and improving quality of life. Treatment methods may vary depending on the type and severity of rhinitis.




  • Avoidance therapy: In the case of allergic rhinitis, it is most important to avoid allergens as much as possible. For example, if you are allergic to house dust mites, it is helpful to wash bedding frequently and use anti-allergy functional bedding. If you are allergic to pollen, it is recommended to refrain from going outside or wear a mask during the pollen season.

  • Drug treatment: A variety of medications can be used to relieve symptoms.

    • Antihistamines: Effective for relieving runny nose, sneezing, and itching. There are first-generation antihistamines that cause drowsiness and second-generation antihistamines that cause less drowsiness.

    • Nasal steroid spray: It is effective for various symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing by reducing inflammation of the nasal mucosa, and it is important to use it consistently.

    • Decongestants: These can provide quick relief from nasal congestion, but be careful because long-term use can actually make nasal congestion worse.

    • Leukotriene modifiers: Relieve symptoms by inhibiting the action of leukotrienes involved in allergic reactions.



  • Immunotherapy (allergy injections/sublingual therapy): This is a treatment that causes our body to react less to certain allergens. Although it requires long-term treatment, it can be expected to fundamentally improve allergic diseases.

  • Surgical treatment: If structural abnormalities of the nose, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, worsen rhinitis symptoms, surgery may be considered.

  • Saline irrigation: This can help relieve symptoms by washing away foreign matter or inflammatory substances in the nose. It is safe to do this several times a day.

  • Managing your lifestyle habits:

    • It is important to maintain appropriate indoor temperature and humidity.

    • On days with severe fine dust, it is helpful to refrain from going outside and use an air purifier.

    • Drinking plenty of fluids will help thin nasal mucus and make it easier to drain.

    • Stress management and regular lifestyle habits are also important in alleviating rhinitis symptoms.




Rhinitis is a disease that can significantly reduce the quality of life, but it can be sufficiently managed with proper diagnosis and treatment. If discomfort persists, it is important to visit a hospital, consult a specialist, and establish a treatment plan that suits you.


Do you have any specific situations or questions about rhinitis symptoms? If there is anything you would like to know more about, please feel free to ask. I will answer in as much detail as I can.










Are you curious about rhinitis surgery? Surgery is not a fundamental cure for rhinitis, but it can help improve your quality of life by relieving certain symptoms, such as nasal congestion. What are you most curious about? I will explain in detail the most commonly asked questions.


1. Types of rhinitis surgery


Rhinitis surgery is mainly aimed at improving nasal airflow by correcting structural problems inside the nose or abnormally enlarged inferior turbinates (nasal turbinates). There are various surgical methods, and the appropriate method is selected depending on the patient's condition and cause.




  • Inferior turbinate resection/reduction: This is the most common rhinitis surgery, which removes or reduces the size of an enlarged inferior turbinate to improve nasal congestion.

    • Radiofrequency rhinitis surgery: This method uses radiofrequency energy to coagulate the submucosal tissue of the inferior turbinate to reduce its volume. It causes less bleeding and has a quicker recovery.

    • Laser rhinitis surgery: This is a method of using a laser to burn and shrink the inferior turbinate mucosa.

    • Microsurgical submucosal dissection: This method involves removing tissue beneath the inferior turbinate mucosa using a fine-bladed instrument. This is effective, but may cause bleeding.

    • External turbinate osteotomy: This procedure involves pushing the inferior turbinate bone outward to create space. This is often done in conjunction with other surgeries.



  • Septoplasty: This is a surgery to correct the crooked nasal septum, the bone that divides the center of the nose, when it is crooked (septal deviation) and causes nasal obstruction.

  • Nasal polypectomy: This is a surgery to remove nasal polyps that form inside the nose and cause nasal obstruction, loss of sense of smell, etc.

  • Functional rhinoplasty: If desired, both functional and cosmetic changes to the nose can be achieved.


2. Effects of rhinitis surgery


The main goal of rhinitis surgery is to improve nasal congestion and help you breathe more smoothly. After surgery, if nasal congestion is improved, you can expect the following positive effects:




  • Improved sleep quality: Reduced sleep disturbance caused by nasal congestion

  • Improved headaches and concentration: Improved oxygen supply

  • Reduces dry mouth and sore throat: Allows normal breathing through nose

  • Improved olfactory function (in case of nasal polyp removal surgery)

  • Some relief of other rhinitis symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing (in case of inferior turbinate reduction surgery)


However, rhinitis surgery does not treat the allergy itself, so symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching may not completely disappear. To alleviate these symptoms, medication or avoidance therapy may be used in conjunction.


3. Post-operative care for rhinitis


Postoperative care is very important for successful recovery and maintenance of results.




  • Immediately after surgery:

    • A cotton pad or gauze may be placed inside the nose to stop bleeding, and removed after 1 to 3 days.

    • There may be swelling and bruising at the surgical site, and cold compresses may help.

    • You must take your prescribed medications properly and manage them according to your doctor's instructions.



  • Recovery period:

    • Be careful not to blow your nose too hard.

    • When sneezing, be sure to open your mouth.

    • It is recommended that you avoid strenuous exercise or activities that put pressure on your nose.

    • Alcohol and cigarettes should be avoided as they worsen inflammation.

    • It is recommended to regularly wash your nose for about 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. Use saline solution to gently remove secretions and crusts inside your nose.

    • It is also important to maintain appropriate indoor humidity.

    • Visit the hospital regularly to check your progress and follow your doctor's instructions.




4. Side effects and considerations of rhinitis surgery


Most rhinitis surgeries are safe, but in rare cases the following side effects may occur:




  • Bleeding: You may experience nosebleeds during or after surgery.

  • Infection: Inflammation may occur at the surgical site.

  • Pain: You may have some pain in your nose for a few days after surgery.

  • Dry nose: Your nasal mucosa may become temporarily dry.

  • Changes in sense of smell: In rare cases, changes in the sense of smell may occur.

  • Septal perforation: Rarely, a hole in the septum may develop after septoplasty.

  • Empty Nose Syndrome: A rare side effect of excessive resection of the inferior turbinate, which causes the nose to feel empty, dry, and stuffy.


The effectiveness of rhinitis surgery may vary depending on the individual's symptoms and condition, and it is not a suitable treatment for all rhinitis patients. Therefore, before deciding on surgery, it is important to consult with an otolaryngologist and carefully decide after receiving a detailed explanation of the necessity of the surgery, method, expected effects, and side effects.


For those suffering from rhinitis, nasal irrigation is one of the most effective self-care methods. Just like taking a shower to clean your body, you can see various positive effects by cleaning the inside of your nose. What are you curious about? I will explain in detail the main effects of nasal irrigation on rhinitis in general.


1. Removal of foreign substances and allergens inside the nose


The most direct effect is that it physically washes away harmful substances such as allergens, bacteria, and viruses, such as dust, pollen, house mites, and pet hair in the nose . Think of it as cleaning. These substances irritate the nasal mucosa and worsen rhinitis symptoms, but nasal washing can reduce these irritants.


2. Maintains moisture in the nasal mucosa and relieves dryness


When you have rhinitis, your nasal mucosa becomes sensitive and can easily dry out. This is especially worse in winter or in dry environments. Nasal irrigation provides moisture to the nasal mucosa , keeping it moist, and helps relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, itching, and nosebleeds caused by dryness.


3. Relieves runny nose and stuffy nose


Sticky or thick nasal mucus can make nasal congestion worse and can also be a source of bacterial growth. Nasal irrigation can help improve nasal congestion by thinning the mucus and making it easier to drain. It can also help reduce swelling in the nasal mucosa.


4. Reduce inflammatory substances and promote ciliary movement


When the nasal mucosa becomes inflamed due to rhinitis, various inflammatory substances are secreted. Nasal washing can help reduce the inflammatory response of the nasal mucosa by washing away these inflammatory substances . In addition, the nasal mucosa has small hairs called cilia that filter out foreign substances and discharge them to the outside. Nasal washing promotes the motor function of these cilia and helps the nose's self-cleaning function.


5. Enhancement of drug treatment effect


Nasal irrigation can help increase the effectiveness of topical medications, such as nasal sprays. When you use medications while your nose is clean, the medications are better absorbed into the nasal mucosa, maximizing their effectiveness.


6. A safe method with few side effects


Nasal irrigation is a safe method with few specific side effects. However, if it is not done correctly or if a contaminated solution is used, there is a risk of infection, so caution is required.


Precautions when washing your nose




  • Use sterile saline solution: Be sure to use sterile distilled water or saline solution for nasal irrigation sold at pharmacies. Do not use tap water or unboiled water, as these can cause infection.

  • Maintain the right temperature: Solutions that are too cold or too hot can irritate the nasal mucosa, so it is best to use a solution that is similar to body temperature.

  • Know the correct way: Since the directions for use may vary depending on the nasal irrigation device or container, read the instructions carefully and use the correct method. Generally, you tilt your head down and pour the solution through one nostril, allowing it to come out through the other nostril or mouth.

  • Don't try to force it: If your nose is severely blocked, trying to clear your nose too hard can cause pressure or pain in your ears. In this case, it is recommended to use a nasal decongestant first before trying.

  • Keep your nasal irrigation equipment clean: Any containers or equipment used for nasal irrigation should be thoroughly cleaned and dried each time to prevent the growth of bacteria.


In conclusion, nasal irrigation is a very useful method for relieving and managing rhinitis symptoms. If done consistently, it can be of great help in maintaining nasal health and improving quality of life. However, if symptoms are severe or persist, it is important to visit a hospital and receive treatment from a specialist.









Report this page