Chronic Rhinitis and Post-Nasal Drip
Medical Author: Siamak Nabili, MD, MPH
Medical Editors: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR and Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
What is the purpose of the nose?
The purpose of the nose is to warm, clean, and humidify the air you breathe
as well as help you to smell and taste. A normal person will produce about two
quarts of fluid each day (mucus), which aids in keeping the respiratory tract
clean and moist. Tiny microscopic hairs (cilia) line the surfaces of the nasal
cavity, helping to brush away particles. Eventually the mucus blanket is moved
to the back of the throat where it is unconsciously swallowed. This entire
process is closely regulated by several body systems.
Structurally, the nose is separated into two passageways (left and right
nostrils) by a structure called the septum. Protruding into each breathing
passage are bony projections, called turbinates, which help to increase the
surface area of the inside of the nose. There are three turbinates on each side
of the nose (inferior or lower turbinates, middle turbinates, superior or upper
turbinates). The sinuses are four paired, air-filled chambers which empty into
the nasal cavity. Their purpose is not really known, but may help to lighten the
skull, reducing its weight.
What are rhinitis and post-nasal drip?
Rhinitis is a very common condition and has many different causes. Basically,
rhinitis may be defined as inflammation of the inner lining of the nose. More
specifically speaking, it may be defined by the presence of one or more of the
following symptoms:
- Rhinorrhea (runny nose)
- Nasal itching
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
Post-nasal drip is mucus accumulation in the back of the nose and throat
leading to, or giving the sensation of, mucus dripping downward from the back of
the nose. One of the most common characteristics of chronic rhinitis is
post-nasal drip. Post-nasal drip may lead to chronic sore throat or
chronic
cough. Post-nasal drip can be caused by excessive or thick secretions, or
impairment in the normal clearance of mucus from the nose and throat.
Next: What causes rhinitis? »
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