Sneezing and Rhinorrhea

last authored Aug 2009, David LaPierre

 

Introduction

Sneezing and/or rhinorrhea (runny nose), together with post-nasal drainage, can be due to allergic rhinitis, nonallergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, and rhinosinusitis.

 

 

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Differential Diagnosis

 

 

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History and Physical Exam

  • history
  • physical exam

History

Atopy, sneezing, watery, itchy eyes, and seasonal symptomology suggest allergic rhinitis.

Worsening with eating, temperature change, or lighting is associated with vasomotor rhinitis.

 

Physical Exam

 

 

 

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Investigations

  • lab investigations
  • diagnostic imaging

Lab Investigations

Allergy testing can help distinguish allergic from nonallergic rhinitis

Diagnostic Imaging

 

 

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Pathophysiology

 

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Clinical Vignette 1

A person takes this treatment for this reason due to concerns re: condition

This happens.

 

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Clinical Vignette 2

 

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Additional Resources

 

 

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Topic Development

created: DLP, Aug 09

authors: DLP, Aug 09

editors:

reviewers:

 

 

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