Rhinitis (Common cold)

Definition:
Acute inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, generally caused by viruses, resulting in swelling which makes it difficult or impossible to breathe through the nose.

Causes/trigger:
Viruses transmitted via droplet infection or indirect contact (handkerchiefs, shaking hands, etc.). In the course of the illness a secondary bacterial infection may occur.

Symptoms/signs/effects:

• Itchy nose, sneezing, nose feeling sore or obstructed, burning feeling in the nose
• Nose becoming increasingly blocked, culminating in a watery secretion from the nose 
• "Red nose" and watering eyes
• With a bacterial infection: a green-yellow tinge to the mucus from the nose (which is now thicker and contains pus)

Diagnosis:
Investigation of the patient's previous history and examination of the nose and pharynx.

Treatment:

• Medication designed to reduce the swelling of the mucous membrane
• Inhalation of NaCl, brine
• Nasal solutions
• Patients should take in plenty of fluids to make sure mucus remains watery
• With a bacterial secondary infection administration of antibiotics