Chronic Rhinitis (cont.)
What are other options for the treatment of rhinitis and post-nasal drip?
Treatment can also be directed towards specific causes of rhinitis and
post-nasal drip as outlined below.
Treatment of infection
The most common nasal infection is a viral infection known as "the
common cold." The virus causes swelling of the nasal membranes and
production of thick clear mucus. Symptoms usually last several days. If "a cold"
goes on for many days and is associated with yellow or green drainage, it may
have become secondarily infected by bacteria. Sinus blockage can lead to acute
or chronic sinusitis which can be characterized by nasal congestion, thick
mucus, and facial or dental pain. Prompt and aggressive treatment of infection
by your physician, with antibiotics, along with supplemental medications, or in
some cases surgery, will help to re-establish the normal drainage pathways.
Reflux Medications
For rhinitis that is thought to be related to acid reflux
disease, antacids (Maalox,
Mylanta) can help to neutralize acid contents,
whereas other medications [cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), omeprazole
(Prilosec)] can decrease stomach acid production. Non-pharmacological treatments
include avoiding late evening meals and snacks and the elimination of alcohol
and caffeine. Elevating the head of the bed may help to decrease reflux during
sleep.
Surgery
Structural problems with the nose and sinuses may ultimately require
surgical correction. Obviously, this should be done only after more conservative
measures have been tried and failed. Surgery is not a replacement for good
allergy control and treatment. Septal deviation, septal spurs, septal
perforation, enlargement of the turbinates, and nasal/sinus polyps can lead to
pooling of or overproduction of secretions, blockage of the normal pathways
leading to chronic sinusitis, and chronic irritation. The surgery is performed
by an ear-nose-throat doctor (otolaryngologist).
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