What is Rhinitis?

Inflammation of the lining of the nose. This lining helps to moisturise the air breathed in, so that dry air does not irritate the throat, trachea (windpipe) and small lung passages. Small hairs in the front part of the nose act as a mechanical filter, blocking dust and dirt particles from the atmosphere. How much dust and dirt that has been trapped can be seen when the nose is blown into a handkerchief. The inflammation blocks the nose and makes it run and feel stuffy. Excess mucus is produced which not only runs from the nose, but may also drip into the throat and cause soreness and coughing. Rhinitis occurs in three forms: acute, chronic and allergic commonly known as hay fever.