Rhinitis
Definition
Causes
Pathophysiology
Nursing management
Clinical manifestations
Is the infection and inflammation of the nasal mucosa, and may present as acute or chronic.
It is caused by virus or bacteria
Grass or flower pollens
Sneezing
House dust, certain foods or chemicals
Nasal discharge
Nasal congestion
Headache
The signs and symptoms of Rhinitis are secondary to:
invasion by bacteria which may complicate the cold causing pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis and/or otitis media
And then causing the person to sneeze, pass rhinorria, suffer from headaches and have nasal congestion
Patient must be advised that she/ he must rest.
She must also drink plenty of fluids
Nasal sprays must be used as prescribed by the doctor. Ensure that nose a clean first.
Cover the mouth with disposable tissue paper when sneezing or coughing to prevent spread of infection by contaminated droplets of fluid from the nose
Blow the nose with both nostrils open to prevent infected matter from being forced into the eustachian tube
Prevent further infection by disposing of fomites hygienically, preferably by incineration
Avoid crowds, people with colds or 'flu and allergens
Suggest that those at risk should have a 'flu vaccine yearly - risk groups include the elderly and those with chronic lung disease
Wash hands frequently, especially after sneezing and coughing into them, because infection is also spread by hand contact and touching objects handled by a person suffering from a cold/'flu