Are all cases of Rhinitis caused by Allergies?
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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 3 to 7 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.