During the third wave of the epidemic, people infected with coronavirus report rhinitis much more frequently than during the previous two waves. The new symptoms may also be related to the spread of the British coronavirus variant in Poland.
‘Very preliminary reports suggest that mutations may make the virus more likely to multiply in the nasal mucosa. These are still early studies, however. I think we need at least a few more months before research establishing this connection clearly becomes available,’ says Prof. Piotr H. Skarżyński.
Rhinitis is a serious symptom and should not be dismissed. Increasing numbers of patients struggle with sinusitis for several months after COVID-19. Complications may even make surgery necessary.
‘Coronavirus infection changes the nature of the mucous membrane and causes swelling. This may lead to a blocked nose, headache and the sensation of discharge running down the back of the throat. In addition, wearing masks dries the membrane and makes it even more susceptible to infection by other microorganisms and to allergy-related symptoms,’ explains Prof. Piotr H. Skarżyński.
It is very important to prevent secretions becoming trapped in the maxillary sinuses, as this can lead to chronic sinusitis. In such situations, care should be taken to moisturise the nasal mucosa appropriately, for example with irrigation and corticosteroid inhalations.