Rhinitis

While it is a common problem, the differential considerations and treatment options can make the appropriate diagnosis and management of rhinitis a challenge. Frequent causes include the viral URI, allergic rhinitis, and vasomotor rhinitis. Eosinophilic nonallergic rhinitis is an interesting syndrome that must be considered in the patient whose presentation is suggestive of allergy but whose laboratory investigation is unrewarding for the same. Rhinitis medicamentosa is a distressing problem that is best managed by prevention. A careful history, physical examination, prudent clinical testing, and appropriate consultation will be beneficial to the primary care physician and allow management of most of these diseases in the ambulatory setting.