Chronic Rhinitis Treatment
Relief for a Nose That Just Won't Stop Running
Chronic or vasomotor rhinitis can cause persistent watery nasal drainage, congestion and post-nasal drip. In some patients, overly sensitive nerves inside the nose contribute to excessive mucus production.
Posterior nasal nerve treatment options may include RhinAer® and ClariFix® technology.
Does This Sound Familiar?
When a Runny Nose Becomes a Daily Problem
Persistent nasal drainage has several possible causes. An evaluation helps determine what may be contributing to your symptoms.
Persistent Runny Nose
Frequent watery nasal drainage that requires repeated nose blowing or tissues throughout the day.
Post-Nasal Drip
Excess drainage that may be noticeable in the back of the throat.
Symptoms Around Meals
Some patients notice increased nasal drainage while eating.
Everyday Triggers
Changes in temperature and strong fragrances may make symptoms more noticeable.
Understanding the Condition
What Is Chronic Rhinitis?
Chronic rhinitis can cause ongoing nasal drainage, congestion and other nasal symptoms.
One form, sometimes called vasomotor rhinitis, can be associated with overly sensitive autonomic nerves inside the nose.
These nerves can contribute to excessive watery mucus production.
Dr. Sonkarley should evaluate persistent nasal symptoms, because allergies, chronic sinus disease and other nasal conditions may cause similar symptoms.
Understanding the Cause
What Are the Posterior Nasal Nerves?
Posterior nasal nerves are involved in signals that influence mucus production inside the nose.
For some patients with chronic rhinitis, these nerves may become overly active and contribute to persistent runny nose and drainage.
Posterior nasal nerve ablation is designed to reduce these excessive nerve signals.
A Minimally Invasive Approach
What Is Posterior Nasal Nerve Ablation?
Posterior nasal nerve ablation is an office-based treatment option for appropriate patients with chronic rhinitis.
After the nasal tissues are numbed, treatment is performed through the nasal passages using an endoscopic approach. A small treatment device targets tissue associated with the posterior nasal nerves.
Depending on the technology selected, controlled radiofrequency energy or cryotherapy may be used. There are no external incisions.
Dr. Sonkarley will determine which approach may be appropriate based on each patient's symptoms and examination.
Two Technologies. One Treatment Goal.
ENTCare SWFL may use different technologies to treat tissue associated with the posterior nasal nerves. The appropriate option depends on the individual patient.
RhinAer®
Aerin Medical
RhinAer® uses controlled radiofrequency technology to treat tissue associated with the posterior nasal nerves through the nasal passage.
ClariFix®
Stryker
ClariFix® uses controlled cryotherapy to treat tissue associated with the posterior nasal nerves through the nasal passage.
What Does Treatment Involve?
Evaluation
Dr. Sonkarley evaluates the nasal passages and symptoms and determines whether chronic rhinitis may be contributing to persistent drainage.
Numbing
For appropriate office-based treatment, the nasal tissues are numbed using local anesthetic.
Nerve Treatment
A small device is guided through the nostril using an endoscopic approach to treat tissue associated with the posterior nasal nerves. Depending on the selected technology, treatment may use radiofrequency or cryotherapy.
Follow-Up
Patients receive individualized aftercare instructions and follow-up from ENTCare SWFL.
See How Treatment Works
Learn About Posterior Nasal Nerve Treatment
Educational video placeholder. Final procedure-specific video content will be added later.
RhinAer® Patient Education
Aerin Medical
Educational video placeholder. Final procedure-specific video content will be added later.
ClariFix® Cryotherapy
Stryker
Manufacturer educational content is provided for general information. Treatment recommendations should be discussed with your physician.
What Can I Expect?
Before Treatment
ENTCare SWFL will review your symptoms, medications and treatment plan and provide individualized preparation instructions.
During Treatment
For appropriate office-based treatment, the nasal passages are numbed before a small device is used to treat the posterior nasal nerve area through the nostrils.
After Treatment
Temporary congestion, swelling, nasal irritation or light nasal bleeding may occur. Improvement may develop gradually as the treated area heals, and recovery and results vary between patients.
Are There Other Treatments for Chronic Rhinitis?
Treatment depends on the cause of the symptoms.
Some patients may first be treated with nasal medications. The treatment information provided by the practice specifically discusses prescription ipratropium bromide as one option for reducing excessive nasal drainage.
For patients whose symptoms remain troublesome, posterior nasal nerve treatment may be considered.
Dr. Sonkarley will determine which options may be appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Other Nasal & Sinus Treatments
Inferior Turbinate Reduction
Featuring CELON® technology
For enlarged turbinates contributing to nasal obstruction and congestion.
Nasal Valve Collapse
Featuring LATERA®
For difficulty breathing through the nose associated with nasal valve collapse.
Tired of Constantly Reaching for a Tissue?
Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Price Sonkarley to discuss persistent runny nose, drainage or congestion and determine which treatment options may be appropriate.