How do I manage rhinitis that has lasted for over two years?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had nose problems for more than two years. My nose is always blocked, I sneeze every morning, and my eyes itch a lot. How do I manage rhinitis that has lasted for over two years at the age of 45? I am tired of feeling sick every day.

I wake up at night because I cannot breathe properly, and I keep tissues with me all the time. I have tried different tablets from local chemists, but the relief only lasts for a few days.

My wife says I snore louder now, and I feel exhausted during work. I do not know if this is an allergy or something else. Could this be serious after so many years?

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

I am sorry that you have been dealing with these symptoms for more than two years. Constant nasal blockage, morning sneezing, itchy eyes, and temporary relief from allergy tablets strongly suggest chronic allergic rhinitis. However, other conditions, such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, a deviated nasal septum, or a combination of these problems, can also cause similar symptoms.

The fact that you wake up at night struggling to breathe, snore more loudly, and feel exhausted during the day suggests that your sleep is being affected, which can significantly impact your quality of life.

While this condition is usually not dangerous, symptoms that persist for years and interfere with sleep and daily functioning require a proper evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or an allergy specialist.

The doctor may examine your nose, look for structural abnormalities, and consider allergy testing. Treatments such as regular saline nasal rinses, prescription intranasal corticosteroid sprays, avoiding known triggers, and targeted allergy treatment often work much better than taking occasional over-the-counter antihistamine tablets from a local chemist.

Seek medical attention sooner if you develop facial swelling, severe facial pain, recurrent nosebleeds, unexplained weight loss, or blockage affecting only one side of the nose. Based on the symptoms described, a chronic allergic or nasal condition is more likely and should be thoroughly assessed so that appropriate treatment can provide lasting relief.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.