Atrophic Rhinitis
When the mucosa in the nasal passages becomes dry and hardens, the condition is called atrophic rhinitis. This is not a common nasal condition, but it can be uncomfortable and cause undesirable symptoms. There are different types of atrophic rhinitis – primary and secondary – that can impact your nasal passages. At Julie Zweig, MD Integrative Sleep & ENT, we offer diagnosis and treatment for atrophic rhinitis at our facility in Alpharetta, GA.
Primary and Secondary Atrophic Rhinitis
Primary atrophic rhinitis occurs without a prior condition. This disorder only affects less than 1% of adults, and it is more common in hotter climates such as Africa than in North America. The exact cause is not always known, but genetics, nutrition and other factors can increase risks.
Secondary atrophic rhinitis is more common and is caused by a prior surgery or health condition. Overuse of nasal medications and drugs can result in this condition. Sinus surgery, a deviated septum and nasal trauma can also result in atrophic rhinitis.
Symptoms of Atrophic Rhinitis
Regardless of whether you have secondary or primary atrophic rhinitis, you may have similar symptoms. The nasal lining can become thin and dry, eventually hardening and crusting over. This crusty interior in the nasal cavity can have a foul odor. Symptoms include:
- Crusty interior of nose, often green in color
- Frequent nose bleeds
- Bad nasal odor
- Bad breath
- Loss of smell
- Headaches
- Nasal obstruction
- Nasal discharge or deformity
- Sore throat
- Frequent sinus or upper respiratory infections
Many people with atrophic rhinitis have the feeling that their nasal passages are blocked even when they are clear. The tissue atrophies and the nasal walls become thin, which can lead to ongoing nasal problems and infections.
Atrophic rhinitis can be a frustrating condition. However, there are treatments and surgery options that can give you relief. Medications, nasal sprays, supplements and moisturizing nasal tissue are some of the possible treatments. If you have symptoms of atrophic rhinitis and want to explore treatment options, contact our team at Julie Zweig, MD Integrative Sleep & ENT. Call our office in Alpharetta, GA, to schedule your appointment with our ENT specialist, and get relief from your atrophic rhinitis.
