The child does not have a runny nose, what should I do? What to do if your child has a runny nose within two weeks

Runny nose in children is a fairly common symptom. For some parents, he gives a lot of trouble, others do not pay attention to him at all, considering him the norm. Usually rhinitis is easily treated, but it so happens that it does not go away for quite a long time: from 5 days to a week or even a month. If so, then the child's runny nose is not simple physiology, and indicates the presence of a serious illness.

Signs of incipient rhinitis in a child:

• Nasal congestion in a child, he breathes through his mouth more often;
• Discomfort in the nose (pain and itching);
• Discolored nasal discharge;
• Inflamed and edematous mucosa.

If the color of the snot changes color from transparent to green, then this indicates that the disease has passed into the next stage. In this case, impurities of purulent discharge or blood streaks may appear.

When a lingering runny nose develops

If children have a runny nose for a long time, then otolaryngologists diagnose chronic rhinitis. This means that both nasal passages are inflamed at the same time. Such a cold is not easy to treat. However, not all cases of long-term rhinitis indicate the presence of chronic rhinitis, since this is one of the main signs:

• The beginning flu;
• Infectious disease;
• Adenoids;
• Functional disorders of the upper respiratory tract.

If a child has suffered a nose injury in the recent past, then a runny nose and nasal discharge may occur against this background. In this case, this phenomenon is not harmful to health.

Prolonged snot, which is a consequence of acute forms of rhinitis, usually begins in the cool season, during colds and epidemics on viral diseases... What is the reason for the child's runny nose? Pediatricians cite the lack of proper treatment for the infection or the wrong treatment regimen. The opinion of some parents that prolonged nasal congestion in a child is not dangerous to health and will go away by itself is erroneous. Inflammation in the nasopharynx negatively affects not only itself, but also some other organs: lungs, heart or bronchi.

When the following signs appear, parents are obliged to show the child to specialists:

• Long-term runny nose, lasting more than 10 days;
• Nasal congestion 2 weeks;
• Thick, viscous yellow / green snot;
• Constant feeling of tiredness, lethargy;
• Itching in the nasal cavity;
• Headaches of varying intensity;
• Worsening sleep.

All of the above indicates that the child begins lingering rhinitis. And a timely appeal to a medical institution will avoid more serious complications.

Rhinitis with fever

An increase in body temperature and nasal congestion are a signal of the formation of serious diseases combined with an infection. When, against the background of a stable body temperature of 38 degrees, a green / yellow substance of a thick consistency flows from the nose, this most often indicates problems in the paranasal sinuses.

Main signs:

1. Stable high temperature.
2. The mucus secreted from the nose contains purulent impurities.
3. Painful sensations on either side of the nose or in the lower part of the forehead.

Rhinitis without fever

A runny nose does not go away for a long period and at the same time a rise in temperature is not observed, then it may be a simple effect of irritants on the nasal mucosa. Most often this is a manifestation of an allergic rhinitis. Aggravation is observed in spring and / or summer. The provocateurs of this phenomenon are considered to be pollen and certain varieties of plants.

Causes of prolonged rhinitis

The causes of a persistent runny nose in a child over a year old can be:

1. Allergens provocateurs that can cause frequent runny nose in a child.
2. Viruses. One of the most frequent reasons, provoking the development of prolonged rhinitis - a protective reaction of the child's body to the presence of an infectious agent.
3. Sensitivity to the influence of household chemicals that can provoke swelling in the sinuses.
4. A frequent runny nose in a child can manifest itself as a result of curvature of the nasal septum: acquired or congenital.
5. Hypothermia. Immunity decreases, harmful bacteria enter the respiratory tract, causing inflammation.

How to treat lingering snot

An unambiguous answer to the question asked can only be given by a specialist after a proper examination. The correct therapy regimen contains a number of drugs and methods:

• If the child has a runny nose, the doctor prescribes medication.
• Antihistamines are prescribed for allergic rhinitis.
• If the runny nose does not go away for a long time, then physiotherapy is prescribed: UFO, electrophoresis and inhalation.

If parents notice that the baby has snot, you need to create a suitable microclimate in the house so that nothing will irritate his nasal receptors.

Medicines used in therapy

• Aquamaris. Nasal drops that moisturize the mucous membrane. It can be used from the first days of a child's life. It helps to relieve symptoms well with a healing effect for sinusitis, rhinitis, adenoids.
• "Nazol Baby". If a child is just beginning to have a runny nose, then these drops will quickly and effectively relieve congestion and normalize breathing.
• Salin. This is a normal saline solution.
• Otrivin. These nasal drops are unfortunately addictive and have some side effects... Before use, carefully read the annotation, use it with extreme caution and correctly.

Inhalation with a cold

For inhalation, medicinal oils are used: sea buckthorn, fir, and so on. Solutions, mineral water, herbal infusions. Inhalation has a very effective effect on the body in the initial stages. You can use a nebulizer at home. It is easy to use and comes with a variety of attachments and masks.

How to do inhalation for a cold with a nebulizer for a child? Different physiological procedures can give the effect. The use of this device is compared with physical procedures.

Pediatricians advise and prescribe such solutions to small patients:

• Mucolytics. This group of solutions includes: "Lazolvan", "Cetylcysteine" and "Mukomist".
• Alkaline compresses. They can be used in almost all nebulizers: Sodium Chloride or Sodium Bicarbonate.
• Antibacterial solutions: "Furacilins", "Malavit" or "Dioxidin".

Is it possible to vaccinate a child with a cold

The opinions of specialist doctors on this matter differ. Some believe that vaccination contributes to the development of immunity, others - that during a cold, it is impossible to vaccinate a child's body. They agree only on one thing: if the child has a fever, sneezing, nasal congestion, and also in babies, when they are teething, vaccinations cannot be done. When lingering snot vaccination can harm a child's fragile body. Therefore, it is worth waiting for the child to heal and only then vaccinate him.

What if the runny nose persists? otolaryngologist Sergeeva Evgenia Aleksandrovna answers this question:

A child's runny nose that does not go away within 1-2 weeks is called a lingering runny nose. Unfortunately, this is a fairly common phenomenon, which is not a variant of the norm and requires mandatory treatment.

What is a lingering rhinitis?

A common runny nose in a child (acute rhinitis) is a pathological condition that develops when infectious pathogens enter the upper respiratory tract viral nature... At the same time, various mechanical injuries and allergic agents can provoke its occurrence. As a rule, with adequate treatment, acute rhinitis in children disappears within a week. However, there are times when inflammatory process becomes protracted. In this situation, we are talking about a lingering cold. This condition may signal the complication and chronicity of rhinitis, or be a symptom of other diseases.

Types of lingering rhinitis in children

1. Normal lingering runny nose Is a pathological condition that is observed in children with weakened immunity, and also occurs when the anatomical structure of the nasal septum is disturbed, inflammation of the adenoids and inadequate use of nasal vasoconstrictor drugs.

2. Bacterial lingering rhinitis is a complication of acute rhinitis. As a rule, it develops when bacterial pathogens join a viral infection and is characterized by abundant mucopurulent discharge from the nasal passages of a yellow-green color.

3. Allergic lingering rhinitis is a pathological condition that develops with prolonged contact with an allergen and is not accompanied by the characteristic symptoms of a cold.

4. Prolonged runny nose during teething is a phenomenon that, according to experts, is not a consequence of a weakened immune system. When teeth erupt in the gums, blood circulation is activated, and since there is a close connection between the blood supply to the mucous membrane of the gums and the nasal cavity, due to the activation of the ciliated epithelium, the production of mucus increases. Thus, a protracted moderate runny nose in children with teething is a variant of the physiological norm.

Causes of a lingering rhinitis in children

• Inadequate treatment (or its complete absence) for acute rhinitis;
• Weakening of immunity;
• Frequent colds of the upper respiratory tract;
• Bacterial infections;
• Allergic reactions;
• Curvature of the nasal septum, enlargement of the inferior turbinates, nasal polyps, tumors and other congenital anomalies;
• Adenoiditis, sinusitis;
• Constant hypothermia of the body;
• The presence of latent infections (chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, etc.).

Sometimes children develop a lingering vasomotor rhinitis, which is characterized by the discharge of abundant clear mucus from the nose and sneezing. Strong odors, dust, cigarette smoke and chlorine (in children who go swimming) can provoke this condition.

At the same time, in clinical practice, there is such a concept as gustatory rhinitis (separation of mucous secretions from the nose when eating spicy food) and reflex rhinitis (physiological condition accompanied by sneezing attacks and rhinorrhea (outflow of mucus from the nose) in bright light).

With inadequate use of local vasoconstrictor drugs and some others medicines children may develop a medicated rhinitis.

Symptoms of a long-term runny nose

A runny nose that does not go away within 10 days is considered a protracted one. At the same time, the child has a constant nasal congestion and shortness of breath, the sense of smell decreases or completely disappears. Often, instead of transparent liquid mucous discharge from the nose, a thick viscous mucopurulent secretion appears. The child complains of headaches, gets tired quickly, becomes lethargic and drowsy. In some cases, nasal discharge begins to drain down the nasopharynx, irritating it back wall and causing burning and itching. To avoid the development of negative consequences, this condition requires urgent medical intervention and compulsory treatment.

Diagnostic measures for lingering rhinitis

With a prolonged runny nose in a child, the diagnosis is made on the basis of data from the epidemiological history, clinical picture and rhinoscopy.

Laboratory diagnostic methods

In severe rhinitis in children of early years, as well as in case of hospitalization of a child in a hospital, it is mandatory clinical analysis blood counting the leukocyte formula. In parallel, according to medical indications, an immunofluorescence analysis of prints of the nasal mucosa can be prescribed to determine viral antigens, or polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which allows identification of a wide range of pathogens of a viral nature.

Methods of etiological diagnosis for protracted rhinitis in children

In the event that the fully recommended treatment of a common cold in a child is ineffective, it may be necessary to identify a chlamydial or mycoplasma infection. For this, a bacterial culture of discharge from the nasal cavity, or PCR of swabs from the nose and throat, is prescribed.

Instrumental diagnostic methods for protracted rhinitis

1. Rhinoscopy. This is one of the most informative methods for diagnosing diseases of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Anterior and posterior rhinoscopy is currently used in clinical practice. In the first case, a nasal mirror and a frontal reflector are used to examine the nasal septum, part of the nasopharynx, the middle and lower turbinates. Posterior rhinoscopy involves the use of a spatula and a nasopharyngeal speculum. In this case, the nasopharynx, the inferior turbinates, the posterior edges of the nasal septum and the openings of the Eustachian tubes are examined. Sometimes an ear funnel is used to examine the anterior part of the nasal cavity (after preliminary instillation of the nose with a vasoconstrictor that relieves swelling of the mucous membrane).

2. Endoscopic rhinoscopy is an innovative, highly sensitive technique that is prescribed when sinusitis is suspected and involves the use of a rigid or flexible endoscope. It should be noted that this is a rather expensive diagnostic method, and therefore its implementation is justified only in case of emergency.

3. Diaphanoscopy (transillumination of the paranasal sinuses). This is perhaps the simplest diagnostic technique used to find out the causes of a lingering rhinitis. During the procedure, a powerful light source is applied to the patient's maxillary or frontal sinus in a dark room. Normally or with a slight thickening of the mucous membrane, the airway sinus transmits light well. If inflammation develops, accompanied by severe edema and filling of the sinus with pathological fluid, darkening is noted. This study is currently recommended instead of X-ray if acute sinusitis is suspected.

Differential diagnosis of lingering rhinitis

The need for differential diagnosis arises when, with a long-term running cold, the non-infectious nature of the disease (hay fever, vasomotor or allergic rhinitis, foreign body or nasal diphtheria).

Treatment of a lingering rhinitis in a child

With a long-term runny nose in a child, treatment tactics are developed taking into account the reason that provoked the development of this pathological condition.

An obligatory technique used in the treatment of lingering rhinitis of various etiologies is regular washing of the child's nasal cavity. Such a hygienic procedure will allow you to wash everything foreign bodies, allergens, viruses and bacteria, as well as get rid of mucous pathological secretions. As a means for rinsing the nose, experts recommend using solutions sea \u200b\u200bsalt (Aqua Maris, Dolphin, Salin, etc.), or herbal decoctions of calendula, chamomile, sage or St. John's wort.

Treatment of viral and bacterial rhinitis

In the treatment of lingering infectious rhinitis in children, complex action phytopreparations are used, which include healing essential oils (pinosol, kameton, etc.). Such agents have mucolytic, antiseptic and deodorant effects and facilitate nasal breathing.

As for local decongestants (vasoconstrictor drugs), they should be used with great caution, no more than 5 days, as they can be addictive and lead to the development of medication rhinitis. For a more accurate and correct dosage, experts recommend using these nasal products in the form of sprays and aerosols. Vasoconstrictor drugs are not prescribed for children under two years of age.

Herbal inhalations, as well as cold inhalations using essential oils (fir, tea tree, myrtle, juniper, anise, thyme) are mandatory for the treatment of lingering rhinitis of viral or bacterial origin.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis

In the case when a lingering runny nose has caused exposure to a substance of an allergic origin, the allergen must be eliminated to alleviate the child's condition. It can be animal hair, down and feathers (in pillows and blankets), soft toys, and decorative items made of heavy fabrics. In the child's room, it is necessary to carry out wet cleaning daily without the use of chemicals, revise his diet, and, if necessary, use antihistamines (after prior consultation with a specialist).

In order to increase the body's resistance, children with weakened immunity are prescribed multivitamin complexes and immunostimulants with antiseptic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, do not forget about hardening the child and daily walks in the fresh air.

Causes of the pathological condition

If a child's runny nose does not go away for a long time, first of all it is necessary to find out what caused this phenomenon. If a child's runny nose does not go away for a week or more, this may be due to:

• physiological characteristics of the newborn's body;
• sinusitis;
• bacterial infection;
• an allergic reaction;
• adenoiditis.

All of the above conditions can be accompanied by nasal congestion and rhinorrhea. In such situations, it is required to conduct differential diagnosis and the use of appropriate medication, if necessary.

Physiological rhinitis in a newborn

If it does not go away, then in most cases it is a physiological phenomenon that does not require special treatment. This condition is manifested by insignificant transparent liquid discharge from the nasal cavity and "squelching" during feeding, the general condition of the newborn is not disturbed.

If the baby's runny nose does not go away for a long time, hygiene requirements must be observed more carefully - the air in the room must always be clean, cool and humid, for this purpose, wet cleaning should be carried out regularly and the room should be ventilated.

Sinusitis

If a runny nose does not go away for 2 weeks in a child, this may be due to an inflammatory process in the paranasal sinuses. This phenomenon is called sinusitis, this condition is usually accompanied by:

• an increase in temperature indicators;
• nasal voice;
• decreased sense of smell;
• painful sensations when pressing on the bone, which is located above the affected sinus.

If it does not go away, the cause may be frontal sinusitis, a condition in which the paired frontal sinuses are inflamed. Because exactly by 2-2.5 years the formation of the frontal sinus ends. This pathology manifests itself as painful sensations in the region of the browbones and the bridge of the nose.

The pain radiates to the eyes, there is tearing, photophobia. It is difficult for a child to determine the place of localization of painful sensations, in most cases he simply complains of a severe headache.

Prolonged rhinitis can also be caused by ethmoiditis - a condition in which the lining of the ethmoid labyrinth becomes inflamed.

The child's condition in such a situation is greatly deteriorating - the body temperature rises, appetite is disturbed, general weakness occurs, and swelling in the orbit area may be observed.

A persistent runny nose in a child can be triggered by sinusitis, an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the maxillary sinuses. With this disorder, intense purulent discharge from the nasal cavity is observed.

In most cases, antibiotics are used to treat sinusitis. However, it is necessary to use such medicines only as prescribed by a specialist, strictly observing the indicated dosage, otherwise the child's well-being may only worsen.

In order to completely get rid of the disease, such therapeutic techniques can be used as:

• "cuckoo";
• puncture of the paranasal sinus;
• in especially difficult situations, surgical intervention is indicated.

Bacterial infection

In a normal state, the nasal mucosa is covered with epithelial cells, which contain immunoglobulins, which prevent the penetration of pathogenic viruses into the body. If immunoglobulins are produced in insufficient quantities, pathogenic microorganisms freely penetrate into the mucous membrane and provoke inflammation.

The cause of the inflammatory process is most often staphylococci, pneumococci, Haemophilus influenzae.

In this situation, the doctor may prescribe drugs such as:

1. Aflubin;
2. Anaferon;
3. Interferon.

Medicines with a vasoconstrictor effect are recommended to be used no more than 3-5 days and only in difficult situations, since such drugs are addictive and can provoke the development of drug-induced rhinitis.

Allergy

If the child does not have a runny nose, the cause of the pathological condition is possibly an allergic reaction, which can provoke the development of anything. The cause of a runny nose can be dust particles, household chemicals, animal hair and feathers, pollen, and more. An allergen can be identified using special laboratory tests.

What to do if the child's runny nose does not go away? First of all, to exclude interaction with an irritant - remove carpets, soft toys from the children's room, use less aggressive detergents, do not come into contact with animals and plants-allergens, carry out wet cleaning twice a day and ventilate the room.

To reduce allergy symptoms, antihistamines are used (Zyrtec, Fenistil, Nasonex).

It is also imperative to clean regularly nasal cavity from irritating substances.

For this purpose, medications made on the basis of sea water are used - Aquamaris, Salin, Marimer.

Adenoiditis

A prolonged runny nose can also be triggered by adenoids (excessive proliferation of tissue in the pharyngeal tonsil). The reason for this violation is frequent ARVI. The overgrowing adenoid tissue prevents normal air circulation in the nasal cavity, especially when lying down - the child may snore during sleep, his voice gradually becomes nasal.

Frequent acute respiratory viral infections lead to inflammation of the adenoids - adenoiditis. Treatment of such a disease is a rather complicated process, depending on the degree of neglect of the pathological condition, conservative therapy or surgery can be carried out.

Today, adenoids can be eliminated with the help of modern methods of treatment such as cryotherapy and laser coagulation.

At the first manifestations of a runny nose, it is necessary to contact a specialist who will find out the cause of such a violation and prescribe adequate treatment. Following all the doctor's recommendations, you can cure the disease for early stage and avoid serious complications.

Rhinitis or runny nose is a violation of the condition of the epithelial membranes of the nasal cavity. The disease is manifested by swelling, a feeling of congestion, the appearance of profuse mucous or purulent discharge, a deterioration in smell, headache, etc. With a long course, the development of pathology of the respiratory function is possible, leading to various dysfunctions of the cardiovascular system. Rhinitis is often a manifestation of other more serious diseases:

• sinusitis, frontal sinusitis;
• otitis media;
• laryngitis;
• pneumonia;
• bronchitis, etc.

In children younger age rhinitis is one of the most commonly detected disorders of the upper respiratory tract. This is due to the insufficient development of the immune system, as a result of which various bacteria and viruses easily enter the child's body through the mucous membranes of the nose.

Attention! Most often, children have acute rhinitis, indicating the development in the body common disease... In this case, a runny nose must be treated correctly and in a timely manner, otherwise the pathology becomes chronic and it is extremely difficult to respond to therapy.

On average, rhinitis of an infectious nature lasts from 3-4 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the disease. However, in some cases, the pathology can continue for several weeks or even months. The reasons for such a violation of the child's well-being may be the following factors:

1. Severe mucosal injury... Traumatic rhinitis, caused for example by chemical or thermal burns, can persist for a long period of time. When treating it, it is extremely important to observe measures aimed at restoring the epithelial membranes. Otherwise, the disease can become chronic.

The duration of the course of the disease largely depends on its form. Acute infectious rhinitis in children ends immediately after the inflammatory process in the body stops, that is, within 2-7 days. Other types of rhinitis require longer treatment. Experts distinguish four main types of the disease:

• infectious - caused by bacteria or viruses;
• vasomotor - provoked by impaired blood circulation in the epithelial membranes of the nose;
• allergic - arisen against the background of an autoimmune reaction of the body;
• traumatic - appearing due to mechanical, chemical or thermal damage to the nasal mucosa.

The reasons for the development of each of the subspecies of rhinitis are different, so the treatment of pathologies has its own characteristics. It is very important to follow the recommendations of a specialist in order to prevent the formation of a chronic form of the disease.

Treatment of protracted infectious rhinitis

With infectious rhinitis in children, there is a pronounced swelling of the epithelial membranes of the nasal cavity, which leads to a sharp decrease in respiratory function. Because of this, the child can cry a lot and be capricious, sleep poorly, complain of a headache. To minimize such manifestations of the disease, patients are prescribed decongestants - drugs to narrow the blood vessels. For the treatment of children of preschool and primary school age, the following means are used:

• Vibrocil;
• Nazonex;
• Protargol;
• Sinupret, etc.

Attention! Use vasoconstrictor drops and sprays for the treatment of protracted rhinitis can be no more than 5-7 days and only as prescribed by a doctor. These funds effectively relieve the symptoms of the disease, but if used incorrectly, they can lead to the development of a vasomotor rhinitis.

If a child has recurrent rhinitis, a specialist may prescribe medications to strengthen the immune system:

• Anaferon;
• Interferon;
• Immunal;
• Imudon;
• Likopid.

The scheme of application and dosage of the drug in each case is determined by the doctor. At the same time, treatment courses must be taken regularly, especially in the autumn and spring, when there is a sharp increase in the incidence respiratory infections among children.

To facilitate breathing and reduce irritation of the mucous membranes, use medications plant-based. They have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. These tools include Kameton, Pinosol, Pinovit etc.

Attention! Before using essential oils or drops based on them, it is recommended to heat the product to 37-38 ° C for greater effectiveness.

If therapy does not bring results, then the patient is prescribed antibacterial agents. These can be sprays, ointments and drops. In severe cases, if the inflammatory process spreads to the deep sinuses, it is necessary to use antibiotics in tablets or injections.

Topical preparations include:

• Isofra;
• Polydex;
• tetracycline ointment;
• Bioparox and others.

Attention! All drugs with an antibacterial effect have age restrictions. You can use the funds only with the appointment of a specialist. It is not recommended to use antibiotics for the treatment of children under two years of age.

Differential diagnosis for protracted rhinitis

If at correct treatment rhinitis, recovery does not occur within 10-15 days, additional diagnostic measures must be taken to exclude the presence of more serious pathologies. In this case, you should seek advice from a pediatrician and an otolaryngologist. The doctor will prescribe the following tests:

1. Rhinoscopy or endoscopic rhinoscopy is a method to determine the development of sinusitis.
2. Diaphanoscopy - transillumination of the paranasal sinuses. Often performed to identify acute sinusitis.
3. The collection of discharge from the nose and throat to determine the causative agent of the disease.
4. Bacterial culture of discharge from the nasal cavity.

Treatment of protracted vasomotor rhinitis

Vasomotor rhinitis is a disease that develops as a reactive reaction of the body to a decrease in vascular tone. Pathology quickly takes on a chronic course, manifested by constant breathing difficulties, sneezing attacks, the appearance of scanty mucous discharge from the nose.

Attention! Vasomotor rhinitis most often occurs in people aged 25-45 years. In children, a similar pathology develops with improper therapy with decongestants. This disease is also called drug rhinitis.

To normalize the work of the vessels of the nose, it is necessary to eliminate all factors provoking rhinitis. For this, if necessary, the therapy of the pathologies of the nasopharynx existing in the child is carried out:

• sinusitis;
• tonsillitis;
• polyps of the nasal cavity, etc.

If the disease is caused by a violation of medication, then you should abandon their use. In the absence of therapeutic measures, vasomotor rhinitis can persist for several years, leading to disruption of trophism in the nasal mucosa.

Attention! Refusal of vasoconstrictor drugs with vasomotor rhinitis often provokes the appearance of epithelial edema and, as a result, a sharp decrease in respiratory function. To avoid this, it is recommended to use herbal sprays and nasal drops that do not contain xylometazoline, naphazoline and other adrenostimulants.

To reduce puffiness, the following remedies are used:

• Pinosol;
• Pinovit;
• Tizine Alerji;
• Allergodil spray, etc.

Also, the patient is shown drugs of general action with an antihistamine effect: Tavegil, Diazolin, Claritin, Erius... An obligatory part of the complex treatment is physiotherapy: electrophoresis, inhalation, therapy using a nebulizer, acupuncture can be used to correct the condition of children over 10-12 years old.

Treatment of protracted allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is an autoimmune reaction of a child's body to the effects of an allergen, including the manifestation of hay fever.

Attention! Pollinosis is a seasonal disease. It arises as a result of an individual hyperreaction to the pollen of flowering plants.

This type of rhinitis is usually manifested by nasal congestion, bouts of sneezing and coughing, the appearance of abundant transparent discharge from the nose, swelling of the mucous membranes, itching, etc. In the absence of therapy, a long-term allergic rhinitis can lead to the development of sinusitis, nosebleeds, a pronounced decrease in smell and bronchial asthma.

Allergic rhinitis usually affects children between the ages of 8 and 12 and occurs in about 10% of patients. Therapy during its treatment should be aimed at eliminating the allergen and reducing or completely relieving the symptoms of the disease.

Experts identify two main types of allergic rhinitis:

1. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is the most common type of illness. Usually manifests itself in children in early age: at 3-6 years old. The symptomatology of the pathology is manifested only in the spring-summer period and is due to the contact of the mucous membranes of the nose with pollen.
2. Year-round rhinitis. This form of the disease is relatively rare in children. Signs of violation are equally strong throughout the year. With this type of rhinitis, the pathological reaction of the body is due to the constant presence of an allergy pathogen in the environment.

A characteristic feature of allergic rhinitis in children is the presence of concomitant disorders: food allergies, dermatoses, allergic bronchitis, etc. You can distinguish an infectious rhinitis from an allergic one by the following features:

• the child's constant desire to scratch his nose;
• redness and swelling of the eyelids;
• abundant liquid transparent selection from the nose;
• frequent sneezing;
• snoring or gasping during sleep.

Differentiating between vasomotor and allergic rhinitis is more difficult. Often, only a specialist can accurately determine the nature of the violation after testing.

Comparative characteristics of manifestations of vasomotor and allergic rhinitis

If a lingering runny nose in a small patient is caused by an allergic reaction, then the causative agent of rhinitis must be eliminated. Most often, the following substances are allergens:

• down and feathers;
• dust, including household dust: on blankets, carpets, curtains, toys;
• animal hair, especially cats;
• household chemicals;
• scented candles, perfumes, perfumed cosmetics.

It is rather difficult to independently establish the cause of the development of rhinitis, therefore, to identify the factor provoking the disease, the child is prescribed an allergy test.

Attention! Infants are especially sensitive to various irritants. Therefore, the room where the small child is constantly located should not contain the listed potential allergens.

Rhinitis therapy in this case can take from 3-6 days to several weeks. For a quick recovery, you must follow some recommendations:

1. Carry out daily wet cleaning in the house where the patient is.
2. Ventilate the room regularly for 10-15 minutes in winter and 30-40 minutes in summer.
3. Spend enough time with your child in the fresh air.
4. Eliminate potential allergens from consumption: citrus fruits, honey, carbonated sugary drinks, chocolate.
5. Use special hypoallergenic powder or soap to wash baby clothes.
6. Carry out a course of treatment with antihistamines as prescribed by a doctor: Claritin, Clemastine, Cetrin etc.

If a child has this type of rhinitis, it is necessary to contact an allergist and then regularly visit him for a routine examination.

In order to prevent a relapse of the disease, the patient's immunity should be strengthened:

1. Provide the child with a full sleep and rest.
2. Conduct vitamin therapy courses.
3. Enroll the child in the sports section, pool.

Treatment of protracted traumatic rhinitis

Traumatic rhinitis is a type of rhinitis that develops as a result of mechanical, chemical or thermal damage to the epithelial membranes of the nasal cavity. As a result of such a lesion, the mucous membranes begin to produce more secretion than necessary. Often with rhinitis, the nasal cavity is affected on one side.

Long-term traumatic rhinitis in young patients usually occurs due to exposure to the epithelium of hot or toxic fumes. Therefore, in order to prevent the development of this pathology, household chemicals should be kept inaccessible to children.

Traumatic rhinitis is manifested by a number of characteristic symptoms:

• dryness of the epithelial membranes in the nasal cavity and pharynx;
• sneezing, coughing, hoarseness;
• the appearance of abundant colorless discharge from the nasal cavity, which after 2-3 days becomes mucopurulent;
• itching in the nose and above the upper lip;
• possible headache, lacrimation, lethargy.

Decongestants are used to relieve swelling of the mucous membranes for 3-4 days:

• Nazonex;
• Protargol;
• Tizin Xilo et al.

You can also use sea buckthorn oil, Bepanten or Panthenol ointments to prevent dry nose. If traumatic rhinitis is caused by surgery, then antimicrobial drugs should be used as part of complex therapy: Isofra, Polydexa, Bioparox.

Attention! With this type of rhinitis, it is forbidden to carry out various physiotherapeutic measures that involve thermal effects on the epithelial membranes of the nose. This can lead to a deterioration in the patient's condition.

Rhinitis is the most common upper respiratory tract disorder in children. Normal acute form this disease stops in 5-7 days after the first signs appear. If the runny nose becomes lingering, you should consult a pediatrician or otolaryngologist and establish the cause of the ailment. Correctly selected therapy will allow you to quickly and effectively cure a child from rhinitis.

Video - Runny nose and cold medications

• Causes of a lingering rhinitis
• Types of lingering rhinitis
• Runny nose in infants
• Long-term rhinitis treatment
• Conclusion on the topic

If the child does not have a runny nose for 2 weeks, what to do? This is a question often asked by worried parents. This phenomenon is not uncommon, but also does not apply to the norm. A persistent runny nose increases fatigue and irritability in both toddler and adults. Respiratory failure inevitably leads to sleep disturbances, loss of appetite. Moreover, if you do not start treatment, the disease will not go away and can serve as the beginning of respiratory diseases, up to chronic sinusitis and the appearance of polyposis formations on the mucous membrane. Prolonged rhinitis occurs for several reasons.

Causes of a lingering rhinitis

First of all, you should pay attention to the nature of the discharge from the nose. If they are transparent, it is possible that this is an allergic rhinitis. But more often the color of the discharge varies from yellow to green (then this viral infection). In both cases, the problem requires immediate resolution.

Maybe the child had already suffered coldsthat was not completely healed. Sometimes the cause of rhinitis in a child is a weakened immune system or frequent infectious diseases respiratory tract. In this case, acute rhinitis can become chronic.

Polyps, or sinusitis, can also cause a runny nose to last for a month or more. In this case, only surgical intervention can help. Curvature of the nasal septum is another possible option. This problem is also solved exclusively by surgery.

In addition, tests for latent infections (chlamydia) should be done.

The so-called medication rhinitis can develop with prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drugs. Of course, in this case, traditional cold remedies not only do not help, but can also harm the baby.

If a child goes to the pool, it is possible that this is how the body reacts to chlorinated water. You can temporarily stop visiting and observe the changes to confirm or exclude this reason.

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Types of lingering rhinitis

For reasons of occurrence, there are several types of rhinitis:

1. During teething or general restructuring of the baby's body during the growth period. Doctors classify this lingering rhinitis as the first type. It occurs in babies with reduced immunity.
2. Usual. It is observed in children with a weak immune system or as a result of a curvature of the nasal septum, inflammation of the adenoids, sinusitis, prolonged use of vasoconstrictors, and also due to foreign objects entering the nose.
3. Allergic. Caused by the action of an allergen. Such a runny nose is not accompanied by cold symptoms, but concomitant phenomena (for example, itching, swelling) may appear.
4. Infectious. As a rule, such a prolonged runny nose is caused by complications after untreated acute rhinitis. It can be recognized by yellow or green highlights.

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Runny nose in infants

Prolonged physiological runny nose is often observed in newly born children and does not need treatment. It can be observed in a child from 1 to 3 months. In this case, there is a slight colorless discharge from the nose, squelching during a meal, not accompanied by a general deterioration in well-being. This is not a disease, but serves as a method of adapting the child's body to new living conditions. All that is required from parents is the observance of general hygiene rules, ensuring a comfortable temperature and clean air in the newborn's room.

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Long-term rhinitis treatment

If the child does not have a runny nose for a long time, in no case should you make a diagnosis yourself, no matter how obvious it may seem, but pay a visit to the doctor who will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Treatment depends on the nature of the disease and its cause, but the general recommendation is to regularly flush the nasal passages to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and other foreign particles.

For washing, you can use sea salt solutions or herbal decoctions of sage, chamomile, calendula.

If a runny nose is infectious, in its treatment, preparations of complex action with essential oils are used: Kameton, Pinosol, etc. They both alleviate the symptoms and help to disinfect the areas of the mucous membrane affected by bacteria. But vasoconstrictor drugs are used for no more than 5 days, since if they are abused, the mucous membrane may degenerate or the so-called medicamentous rhinitis may occur. Inhalation with essential oils helps with such a cold. But it is worth remembering that bactericidal drugs should be used only as directed by a doctor, since when they are used in children, all kinds of side effects, up to complications.

When allergic rhinitis it is necessary to eliminate the source of the allergy itself, if it is already established. This can be dust, animal fluff, pollen, feathers in the pillow, certain types of food. In any case, treatment must begin with a visit to an allergist who will prescribe the necessary medications. To increase immunity, you can independently give your child complex vitamin products, carry out hardening procedures and not neglect walking in the fresh air.

Very often, the cause of a long-lasting rhinitis is sinusitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane inside the maxillary maxillary sinuses). It is extremely rare in children under 2 years of age. In this case, the main symptoms are purulent discharge, congestion in one half of the nose, as well as pressure inside the affected area. Blowing the nose in this case does not bring relief, breathing is restored only after using special methods: sinus punctures, rinsing the nose. Untreated sinusitis always becomes a chronic form, which will require long-term treatment... Therefore, if you suspect sinusitis, treatment should be started immediately. Warming up the nose often helps.

In the event of a prolonged persistent rhinitis caused by polyposis formations, sinusitis or curvature of the septum, the intervention of a surgeon is required. Do not start self-medication folk remedies: as a rule, they are powerless in this case, and the neglect of the disease can lead to tumor growth and related complications.

In addition to the longest lasting runny nose, there are fever, nasality, a constant feeling of fullness from the inside (up to painful effects when pressing on the nose or the area adjacent to it), swelling of the face. The condition can be aggravated by chronic sinusitis, complicated by polypous neoplasms, a deviated septum, or inflamed adenoids. For adults, sinusitis in itself is not a big danger, but it does threaten the life of babies. A course of nasal medications, sinus piercing and lavage are prescribed.

The proliferation of adenoids is another of the. Frequent viral diseases can provoke their inflammation. On them, in the lymphoid tissue, of which the adenoids are composed, an immune-type reaction is manifested. The adenoids increase, begin to sag inside the nasopharynx, making it difficult to breathe and provoking the spread of inflammation to the mucous membrane of the nasal sinuses and nasal cavity. The child develops snoring, nasal sounds, due to constant discharge under the nose, the skin turns red and swells, the mouth is open all the time, since it becomes impossible to breathe through the nose over time, the olfactory functions are impaired, the upper teeth begin to protrude above the lower ones. Treatment at an early stage is carried out by conservative methods, but at a late stage, the only way out of the situation is surgery. Nowadays, modern means of dealing with adenoids are emerging: cryotherapy and laser coagulation.

If the cause of protracted rhinitis is any tumor formation, only surgical intervention is required.