Nasal polyps and sinusitis are two possible complications of non-allergic rhinitis.
Nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are fleshy swellings that grow from the lining of your nose or sinuses (the small cavities above and behind your nose). They are caused by inflammation of the membranes of the nose and sometimes as a result of rhinitis.
Nasal polyps are shaped like teardrops when they are growing and they look like a grape on a stem when fully grown. They vary in size and can be a yellow, grey or pink colour. They can grow on their own or in clusters and usually affect both nostrils.
If nasal polyps grow large enough, or in clusters, they can:
- interfere with your breathing
- reduce your sense of smell
- block your sinuses, leading to sinusitis (see below)
Small nasal polyps can be shrunk using corticosteroid nasal sprays so they do not cause an obstruction in your nose. Large polyps may need to be surgically removed.
Read more about nasal polyps.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a common complication of rhinitis. It is where sinuses become inflamed or infected.
If sinuses become filled with mucus, the fluid usually drains away. However, if fluid cannot drain away - for example, as the result of a blockage, it may become infected with bacteria.
Sinusitis often occurs as a complication of rhinitis because a build-up of mucus or nasal polyps can prevent sinuses draining properly.
Common symptoms include:
- pain and tenderness of the infected sinus - you may experience a throbbing pain in your sinuses and toothache or pain in your jaw when you eat
- a blocked or runny nose - your nose may produce a greenish or yellowish mucus; if your nose gets blocked with mucus, any pain or tenderness in the affected area may become worse
- a high temperature (fever) of over 38C (100.4F)
Symptoms of sinusitis can be relieved using over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin. These will relieve a headache, high temperature and any pain or tenderness around the infected area.
Children under 16 years of age should not take aspirin. Ibuprofen is not recommended for people with asthma or those who currently have stomach conditions, such as stomach ulcers, or have had them in the past. Speak to your GP if you are unsure.
Antibiotics may be recommended if you develop a secondary infection in your sinuses. In cases of long-term sinusitis (chronic sinusitis), surgery may be needed to improve the drainage of your sinuses.
Read more about sinusitis.
