Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nose. It is characterised by a wide range of uncomfortable nasal symptoms.
Understanding Allergic Rhinitis
What is Rhinitis?
There are several types of Rhinitis, including: Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever), which is caused by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores. Likewise, Non-allergic Rhinitis is not caused by allergies but by other factors such as irritants (e.g., smoke, pollution, perfumes), changes in weather, infections, certain medications, or hormonal changes.
Conventional Treatment for Rhinitis
Conventional treatment for Rhinitis depends on the type and severity. It may include:
- Antihistamines (for allergic Rhinitis).
- Nasal corticosteroids.
- Decongestants.
- Saline nasal sprays.
- Avoidance of allergens (for allergic Rhinitis).
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Rhinitis include:
- Nasal congestion (stuff nose).
- Runny nose (rhinorrhea).
- Sneezing.
- Itching of the nose, eyes, and throat.
- Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat).
- Watery eyes.
- Cough.
The Ayurvedic View of Allergic Rhinitis
Ayurvedic Understanding of Rhinitis
In Ayurveda, Rhinitis is considered to be an imbalance of the Kapha dosha (earth and water) and sometimes Vata (air and space) affecting the Prana Vaha Srotas or respiratory system. Ayurvedic approaches focus on:
- Balancing the Kapha dosha.
- Anti-inflammatory effect.
- Immunity strengthening.
- Elimination of excess mucus.
Treatment at Aksa Ayurveda
Ayurvedic Medicine for Rhinitis
- Herbal drugs: Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), and Vasa (Adhatoda vasica) are used for their anti-inflammatory, decongestant, and immune-boosting properties.
- Dhoomapana: Herbal Inhalation. Inhaling medicated fumes can be beneficial in decongesting the airways. This is done under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic physician.
- Lifestyle modifications: Dietary modifications, avoiding known precipitants, and stress management.
Diet & Lifestyle
Diet and lifestyle support treatment in Rhinitis.
Diet: Avoid Kapha-aggravating foods such as dairy products, heavy, oily, cold, and processed foods. Favor Kapha-pacifying foods, such as warm, light, and easily digestible foods. Include spices like ginger, black pepper, and turmeric in your diet.
Lifestyle: Avoid exposure to known allergens or irritants. Practice good hygiene. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Allergic Rhinitis is caused by allergens, whereas non-allergic Rhinitis is caused by other agents such as irritants or weather changes.