Etymed
rhinitis
Definition
inflammation of the nasal mucosa
Clinical context
A 32-year-old woman presents with persistent nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing that has worsened over the past two weeks. She reports symptoms are particularly severe in the morning and when exposed to her cat. Physical examination reveals pale, edematous nasal mucosa with clear nasal discharge. A nasal smear shows eosinophils. The patient's symptoms are most consistent with allergic rhinitis.
Mnemonic
RhinAsthma = Rhinitis + Asthma (both involve nasal inflammation)