Rhinitis may result from many causes other than allergic reaction. Not all rhinitis symptoms are the result of allergies. The most common condition causing rhinitis is the common cold, an example of infectious rhinitis. Most infections are relatively short-lived, lasting from three to seven days. Colds can be caused by any one of more than 200 viruses. Children, particularly young children in school or day care centers, may have from 8 - 12 colds each year. Fortunately, the frequency of colds lessens after immunity has been developed from exposure to many viruses.
Colds usually begin with a sensation of congestion, rapidly followed by a runny nose and sneezing. Over the next few days, congestion becomes more prominent, the nasal mucus may become colored, and there may be a slight fever and cough. Cold symptoms usually resolve within a couple of weeks, although a cough may sometimes persist. Cold symptoms that last longer may be due to other causes, such as chronic rhinitis or sinusitis.