10 ways to distinguish allergic rhinitis from catarrhal rhinitis

Discharge from the nose bothers us not only during a cold, but also with allergic reactions. It is not always possible to understand what caused these nasal discharges. However, the nature of their occurrence is completely different, respectively, the methods of treating this disease will also differ, agrees estet-portal.com. We made a small comparative description of how to distinguish allergic rhinitis from the common cold. However, you should not make a diagnosis on your own and choose a treatment yourself, it is better to entrust this moment to a specialist.

The main symptoms of the common cold

Nasal discharge is quite common.  Rhinitis of any etiology is characterized, as a rule:

• nasal congestion,
• sneezing;
• Itching inside the nose.

However, with common rhinitis, other symptoms are added to the common cold. First, dryness in the nose and burning appear, then discharge from the nose begins to appear. Often the common rhinitis is associated with viral infections, so there is a rise in temperature. In addition, a state of congestion in the ears, headaches, lack of appetite, and general weakness of the body may appear. On the 4-5th day, purulent discharges form in the sinuses.

What causes allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is a fairly common problem, it affects 15% of the population, including children. He can accompany the patient not only seasonally, but throughout the year.  Examples of such allergens are:

• animal hair,
• household chemicals,
• ordinary dust,
• furniture, carpets,
• cosmetics, etc.

During the flowering season, it can be caused by pollen from various plants. Molds can also cause it.

Allergies are often accompanied by conjunctivitis, skin rashes, eczema.  Rhinitis usually resolves with certain antihistamines.

Allergic rhinitis can also be accompanied by dry cough, itching and dryness in the throat, lack of smell, taste sensations.

See also: Seasonal sneezing: causes of allergic rhinitis

How to distinguish allergic rhinitis from rhinitis?

 Allergic rhinitis is not so easy to distinguish from common rhinitis, but you can pay attention to such differences:

1. One of the most striking differences between a common cold and an allergic reaction – is the presence of temperature. If the temperature is elevated, then the discharge from the nose is most likely associated with an infection or virus, and not with a reaction to allergens.
2. Also, common rhinitis with colds is characterized by general weakness of the body and lack of appetite, and this is not observed with allergies.
3. Allergic rhinitis starts suddenly, while in a common cold, the symptoms of nasal discharge gradually progress over 1-2 days.
4. Most often, allergic rhinitis is accompanied by severe itching in the depths of the nose, which is why the patient constantly wrinkles it, since there is no way to scratch the itchy place.
5. Runny nose in the presence of an allergen is accompanied by continuous sneezing, from 10 or more times in a row. Whereas ordinary rhinitis is not accompanied by sneezing as often up to 2-3 times.
6. In common rhinitis, the discharge becomes thicker and darker after a few days. And with allergic – transparent all the time.
7. Allergies can also be accompanied by tearing and redness of the eyes. Black and blue circles under the eyes may appear. With rhinitis, such symptoms are not observed.
8. The common cold usually resolves after antiviral and symptomatic treatment. Whereas allergic manifestations end only after the elimination of contact with the allergen that causes it or the intake of antihistamines.
9. Allergies are often accompanied by more than just nasal discharge. But also skin manifestations: dermatitis, redness, itching.
10. Allergic rhinitis can be hereditary, so if parents were prone to such manifestations, children will also be susceptible to allergies.

 Whatever the cause of a runny nose, only a doctor will be able to choose the appropriate treatment for you. Treat yourself safely with estet-portal.com.