Respiratory Virus and Measles Information

Treatments

Treatment for allergic and nonallergic rhinitis depends on how troublesome the symptoms become.

When symptoms are mild, treatments may include:

Avoiding things that trigger symptoms, including smoke, pets, strong cleaning products, scented products and plants
Using a neti pot to rinse the nasal cavity
Using bottled saline spray in the nose
Quitting smoking
Using the air conditioning rather than having windows open during the allergy season
Taking over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines (both oral and nasal) Note: Decongestant nasal sprays shouldn’t be used for more than two to three days at a time because they can cause rebound congestion.

When symptoms become severe, your physician may suggest:

Rhinitis

Most types of rhinitis are caused by an inflammation and are associated with symptoms in the eyes, ears or throat.

Hayfever - Nasal Allergies

Allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or perennial, both of which cause nasal discharge with sneezing, sniffling and nasal itching.

What’s the Difference Between Cold and Flu? [Infographic]

Learn about symptoms, treatment and prevention.

Chronic Sinusitis and Nasal Polyps: Diagnosis and Treatment

Finding the root cause of your sinus infection is the first step to finding relief.

Quick Dose: When Are Cold or Flu Symptoms Cause for Concern?

Find out when coughs and congestion call for a trip to your physician with the fast answer from a Northwestern Medicine primary care physician.