The difference between sinusitis and rhinitis

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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Rhinitis and sinusitis are common inflammations in our nasal area, frequently occurring and widely prevalent. Rhinitis primarily involves inflammation of the nasal mucosa, while sinusitis specifically refers to inflammation in the sinus cavities and their mucous membranes. These two have different locations of onset. Furthermore, rhinitis is more commonly seen clinically compared to sinusitis, which is less common relative to rhinitis. Moreover, rhinitis is generally treated with medication and seldom requires surgical intervention. In contrast, sinusitis may also require surgical treatment besides medication. Thus, the main differences between them primarily include these aspects. Overall, the fundamental difference between rhinitis and sinusitis lies in their different locations of onset.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
54sec home-news-image

The difference between sinusitis and rhinitis

Rhinitis and sinusitis are common inflammations in our nasal area, frequently occurring and widely prevalent. Rhinitis primarily involves inflammation of the nasal mucosa, while sinusitis specifically refers to inflammation in the sinus cavities and their mucous membranes. These two have different locations of onset. Furthermore, rhinitis is more commonly seen clinically compared to sinusitis, which is less common relative to rhinitis. Moreover, rhinitis is generally treated with medication and seldom requires surgical intervention. In contrast, sinusitis may also require surgical treatment besides medication. Thus, the main differences between them primarily include these aspects. Overall, the fundamental difference between rhinitis and sinusitis lies in their different locations of onset.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
53sec home-news-image

Is chronic rhinitis contagious?

Chronic rhinitis primarily refers to the chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa. Clinically, it is classified into three types based on pathology: simple rhinitis, hypertrophic rhinitis, and atrophic rhinitis. From its classification, it can be seen that chronic rhinitis is not contagious. Clinically, it mainly manifests as nasal congestion, congestion of the nasal mucosa, nasal enlargement, etc. Therefore, it is not contagious. However, it is important to note that chronic rhinitis can sometimes acutely exacerbate under certain special conditions. During an acute exacerbation of chronic rhinitis, the nasal mucosa becomes highly congested, and secretion increases, which may be somewhat contagious under these circumstances. Therefore, analysis should be based on specific conditions. In summary, chronic rhinitis is not contagious.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to completely cure seasonal rhinitis?

Seasonal rhinitis is mainly caused by allergic reactions, which are related to the body's exposure to external allergens. It is recommended that individuals seek care from an otorhinolaryngologist after experiencing allergies, to conduct external allergen screening and identify specific allergens. Most patients can only control their condition and alleviate symptoms. If it is a case of a dust mite allergy of grade three or above, desensitization treatment can be considered. After desensitization, some patients may achieve clinical cure, but others might only see improved symptoms without a complete cure. Overall, regular follow-up is necessary to monitor changes in the condition, and contact with allergenic substances should be avoided as much as possible.

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
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How to relieve chronic rhinitis

Chronic rhinitis mainly refers to the inflammation of the nasal mucosa and submucosa, which may be related to allergic states, bacterial infections, viral infections, and environmental factors, as well as the patient's diet and lifestyle habits. Traditional Chinese medicine considers this a manifestation of excessive heat or internal heat. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid catching a cold, smoking, drinking alcohol, staying up late, and consuming spicy or stimulating food. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods that are cooling and slightly bitter may help. Under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist, the use of antihistamines and traditional Chinese medicines for clearing heat and detoxifying can be beneficial. Applying glucocorticoid nasal sprays may also help. Generally, such treatments can alleviate or cure the condition.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can chronic rhinitis be cured?

Chronic rhinitis primarily focuses on controlling the condition and relieving symptoms. Current treatment methods mainly involve medication, generally using oral drugs and nasal sprays to improve nasal symptoms. Additionally, physiological saline can be used to rinse the nasal cavity. Overall, most cases can be effectively controlled and alleviated through medication. If the nasal turbinates are particularly enlarged and conservative medical treatment is ineffective, surgical treatment can be considered. However, both medication and surgery mainly aim at control rather than cure. With the existing medical approaches, it is challenging to completely cure chronic rhinitis. Generally, it is considered a common and not particularly severe condition.