Rhinitis%20-%20nonallergic Patient Education
Patient Education
- Provide general information about the disease and available treatments
- Manage patient’s expectations from therapy and explain that a complete cure may not be possible
- Provide educational materials as necessary
- Educate patient about the proper use of medications and possible side effects
- Concomitant medications should also be reviewed to determine if the patient is taking drugs that may cause oral or nasal dryness
- Lifestyle modifications such as proper hygiene and regular nasal rinsing
- Good personal hygiene may minimize the risk of exposure to triggers (eg viruses, environmental irritants)
- Nasal rinsing when done properly may assist in the absorption of nasal medications
- Advise patient to increase water intake and to decrease caffeine or alcohol intake to decrease postnasal drip
- Educate patient about the complications of rhinitis (eg otitis media and chronic sinusitis)