Rhinitis: What Is It, What Are the Different Types and Symptoms?

A runny nose does not always begin with a cold. Sometimes stepping outside into chilly air, entering an air-conditioned room or walking past flowering plants is enough to make your nose feel blocked. One possible explanation is rhinitis. But what exactly causes it, how do different types of rhinitis vary, and why does the nasal lining need regular attention?

What Is Rhinitis and What Causes It?

Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal lining, which may cause nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose or changes in the sense of smell.

Common causes of rhinitis include viral infections, allergens, airborne irritants and sensitivity to temperature changes.

A runny nose may appear suddenly and disappear within a few days. In other cases, symptoms keep returning, even when there are no other signs of a cold.

What Are the Different Types of Rhinitis?

Different types of rhinitis often share similar symptoms, although their causes and patterns can vary.

Type of rhinitis	Common symptoms
Acute rhinitis	Sudden nasal congestion, sneezing and nasal discharge, often associated with viral respiratory infections
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)	Watery nasal discharge, itchy nose, repeated sneezing and watery eyes
Vasomotor rhinitis	A blocked or runny nose triggered by cold air, strong smells or temperature changes
Chronic rhinitis	Persistent nasal congestion, recurring nasal discharge, occasional dryness and reduced sense of smell

Acute rhinitis frequently occurs alongside respiratory infections. To learn more about their typical signs, read our article “ARVI: Symptoms and How to Recognize Them”.

What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Rhinitis?

A blocked nose without a runny nose can be just as uncomfortable as excessive nasal discharge. One possible reason is swelling of the nasal lining, which narrows the nasal passages and makes breathing through the nose more difficult.

Common rhinitis symptoms include:

• difficulty breathing through the nose;
• clear, watery or thick nasal discharge;
• frequent sneezing and an itchy nose;
• dry nasal passages and crust formation;
• a reduced sense of smell.

Some people experience symptoms only during particular seasons, while others notice them throughout the year.

If nasal congestion persists or a runny nose keeps returning, it is worth consulting an ENT specialist to identify the underlying cause.

Why Can Rhinitis Cause a Dry Nose?

The nasal lining comes into contact with air, dust and other airborne particles every day. Its surface is covered by a thin layer of mucus.

Dry indoor air, heating and air conditioning may increase nasal dryness. Sometimes this is accompanied by crusting or an uncomfortable tight sensation inside the nose.

Paying attention to indoor humidity, ventilating rooms regularly and maintaining everyday nasal hygiene can make daily care more comfortable.

Lorekt for Nasal Mucosa Care

The Vorwarts Pharma product range includes Lorekt, designed for moisturising the nasal and throat mucosa.

The official product page provides information about its composition, instructions for use, application features and purchasing options.

For more details, explore “Lorekt for Nose and Throat: Answers to Common Questions”.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinitis

What is the difference between rhinitis and a runny nose?

Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the nasal lining. A runny nose describes nasal discharge, which is one of the symptoms that may occur with rhinitis.

Can you have rhinitis without a cold?

Yes. Allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis, including vasomotor rhinitis, can occur without a viral infection.

How long does acute rhinitis last?

When associated with a viral infection, symptoms often begin to improve within 7–10 days, although the duration can vary.

Why Is Regular Nasal Care Important?

Rhinitis can have different causes and symptoms, so persistent or recurring nasal congestion should not be ignored. Everyday habits, comfortable indoor humidity and appropriate nasal care are important parts of regular nasal hygiene.

Learn more about Lorekt by Vorwarts Pharma and read the instructions for use on the official website.