Geriatric rhinitis: what it is, and how to treat it

In the nose, normal physiologic changes of aging include loss of nasal tip support, atrophy of mucus-producing mucosal glands, and decreased olfaction. These changes contribute to geriatric rhinitis, the symptoms of which are often attributed by the older patient to "allergies" or "sinus trouble." An understanding of these anatomic changes, linked with a thorough history and physical examination, allows the physician to properly manage geriatric rhinitis. Medical management most often involves liquifying--not drying--nasal secretions with oral and topical preparations. Conservative surgical treatment is occasionally indicated.