Chronic rhinitis means a blocked, runny or stuffy nose that lasts for 12 weeks or more. Allergy is one common cause (see allergic rhinitis), but many people have non-allergic rhinitis — from irritants, medicines, hormones, or the structure of the nose. Finding the type guides treatment. Ayurveda describes long-standing nasal congestion as Pinasa or Dushta Pratishyaya.
The lining of the nose warms, moistens and filters air. When it is inflamed or over-reactive for months, it swells and produces extra mucus, causing a blocked or runny nose, post-nasal drip (mucus running down the throat), frequent throat-clearing, snoring, poor sleep, and a reduced sense of smell. It is common, rarely serious, and usually manageable — but it deserves a proper look, especially if it is on one side only.
| Type | Clues |
|---|---|
| Allergic | Sneezing, itching of nose and eyes; triggered by dust, pollen, pets |
| Vasomotor (non-allergic) | Runny or blocked nose triggered by temperature change, strong smells, spicy food, alcohol; no itching |
| Medicine-induced | Using decongestant drops (oxymetazoline, xylometazoline) for more than a week; some blood-pressure medicines, aspirin or painkillers |
| Hormonal | Pregnancy, underactive thyroid |
| Structural | Deviated nasal septum, enlarged turbinates or adenoids (children) — blockage often worse on one side |
| Nasal polyps | Constant blockage on both sides, loss of smell, often with asthma |
| Occupational & pollution | Dust, chemicals, smoke at work or at home |
Pratishyaya that becomes long-standing and recurrent is called Dushta Pratishyaya; Pinasa describes a blocked nose with discharge and reduced smell. Both are attributed mainly to Kapha with Vata, perpetuated by cold exposure, dust, weak digestion, day sleep and suppressed sneezing. Treatment combines avoidance of causes, steam (swedana), medicated nasal drops (nasya), gargles and herbs that reduce Kapha.
Oil drops should not be used in young children or with a nosebleed, and oil should never be inhaled deeply — rarely, repeated inhalation of oil reaches the lungs. Stop and see a doctor if symptoms are one-sided. Use licensed products from a qualified practitioner.
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Reviewed against NHS: Non-allergic rhinitis, NHS: Allergic rhinitis, NCCIH: Ayurvedic Medicine, and Ministry of Ayush pharmacovigilance. These links support education and do not replace individual medical advice.