What is Viral Rhinitis?

Viral rhinitis, commonly referred to as the common cold, is a viral infection that affects the nose and throat. It is a prevalent condition that can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose.  [1]

 

 

What are the Symptoms of Viral Rhinitis?

The symptoms of viral rhinitis can vary from person to person, but the most common signs include:

 

• Nasal Congestion: Nasal congestion, or a stuffy nose, is a primary symptom of viral rhinitis. It occurs due to inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages, resulting in difficulty breathing through the nose. [2]

 

• Runny Nose: A runny nose is characterized by excessive production of thin, watery mucus. This symptom may irritate and lead to frequent nose wiping.

 

• Sneezing: Sneezing is a reflex action that helps to expel irritants or viruses from the nose. It is a common symptom of viral rhinitis and often occurs in rapid succession.

 

• Sore Throat: Some individuals may experience a mild sore throat or throat irritation due to postnasal drip, which is the drainage of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat.

 

• Cough: A dry, non-productive cough may occur as a result of throat irritation caused by postnasal drip.

 

 

What are the Causes of Viral Rhinitis?

Viral rhinitis is primarily caused by viral infections, with the most common culprits being rhinoviruses. [3] These viruses are highly contagious and can be easily transmitted through respiratory droplets. Factors that increase the risk of viral rhinitis include:

 

• Direct Contact: Coming into direct contact with an infected person, such as shaking hands or sharing personal items, can facilitate the spread of the virus.

 

• Airborne Transmission: The viruses responsible for viral rhinitis can be present in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Inhaling these respiratory droplets can lead to infection.

 

 

• Contaminated Surfaces: Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus, such as doorknobs or keyboards, and then touching the nose or mouth can contribute to viral rhinitis.

 

 

Management Strategies for Viral Rhinitis:

While there is no cure for viral rhinitis [4], several strategies can help manage the symptoms and promote recovery. These include:

 

• Rest and Fluid Intake: Getting adequate rest and staying hydrated by consuming fluids, such as water, herbal tea, or warm soups, can help support the immune system and relieve symptoms.

 

• Nasal Saline Irrigation: Using a saline solution or nasal irrigation system can help flush out excess mucus and alleviate nasal congestion.

 

• Over-the-Counter Medications: Over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants or antihistamines, may provide temporary relief from nasal congestion and runny nose. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

 

• Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or using a humidifier can help moisturize nasal passages and ease congestion. [5

 

• Symptom Relief: Using throat lozenges or sprays, drinking warm beverages, and using a humidifier can help soothe a sore throat and cough associated with viral rhinitis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References:

1. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-21217-9_23
2. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/014556130007900908
3. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.2500/105065898782102954
4. https://europepmc.org/article/med/17153013

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0196070987800376

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