Location Inflammation of mucosal lining of nose

Aetiology

• Allergic: IgE response to allergens; seasonal (grass, weed and tree pollens), perennial (eg dust mites, cat and dog dander)
• Infectious: Rhinosinusitis (see sinusitis)
• Non allergic: no identifiable trigger/cause
• Occupational: (guess what causes this)
• Drug induced: include aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), vasodilator drugs (eg some antihypertensives), intranasal decongestants (causing rhinitis medicamentosa) and estrogen-containing preparations (including combined oral contraceptives)

Demographics: Peak 20-40yos then decline. Seasonal allergies common for kids, chronic rhinitis in adults.

Risk factors: Allergic: FHx atopy, increased Socioeconomic status, increased IgE

Clinical features

• allergic rhinitis: rhinorrhoea, sneezing, nasal blockage, nasal itch, altered sense of smell. Commonly with asthma, sinusitis.
• nonallergic rhinitis: sneezing, rhinorrhoea, upper airway cough syndrome (postnasal drip) and nasal congestion