Red flags & when to go in person for Nonallergic Rhinitis

Audience: pediatric

Nonallergic rhinitis causes nasal symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose without allergy triggers. In children, it often comes from irritants such as smoke, strong smells, or infections. Symptoms may include sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery nasal discharge. While many cases can be managed at home or through telemedicine, some signs mean your child needs to see a healthcare provider in person. These include high fever, severe breathing difficulty, or symptoms that worsen or do not improve. Telemedicine can help assess mild symptoms, guide home care, and decide if further care is needed. Always watch for warning signs and seek prompt medical attention when necessary. This guide helps parents understand when to use telemedicine and when to seek in-person care for their child’s nonallergic rhinitis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing — go to emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 2 days — see a healthcare provider in person.
• Severe facial pain or swelling — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild nasal congestion and runny nose without breathing difficulty.
• Symptom assessment and advice on home care.
• Guidance on over-the-counter treatments and when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing problems or wheezing.
• High fever persisting beyond 48 hours.
• Signs of infection spreading such as facial swelling or severe pain.
• Dehydration or decreased alertness.

What is Nonallergic Rhinitis in Children?

Nonallergic rhinitis is inflammation of the inside of the nose that is not caused by allergies. It can cause symptoms like a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and postnasal drip. In children, triggers may include irritants such as smoke, pollution, strong odors, cold air, or infections.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Children with nonallergic rhinitis often have:

These symptoms can come and go and may worsen with exposure to irritants.

When to Use Telemedicine for Your Child

Telemedicine can help if your child has mild symptoms without serious signs. A healthcare provider can:

Telemedicine is convenient and safe for monitoring mild cases.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Seek urgent in-person care if your child has:

These signs may indicate complications or other serious conditions.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit:

This helps the provider give the best advice.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Observe and note your child's symptoms and their duration.
• Check and record your child's temperature.
• Identify possible irritants or triggers your child was exposed to.
• Prepare a list of any medications your child is taking.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on home care and medications.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes.
• Keep track of temperature and breathing status.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended by the provider.

FAQs

What causes nonallergic rhinitis in children?

Nonallergic rhinitis is often caused by irritants like smoke, strong smells, pollution, or infections. It is not caused by allergies or immune system reactions.

Can nonallergic rhinitis turn into an infection?

Usually, nonallergic rhinitis itself is not an infection, but sometimes it can lead to secondary infections if symptoms persist or worsen. Watch for signs like high fever or facial pain.

How can I help my child feel better at home?

You can reduce exposure to irritants, use a humidifier, encourage fluids, and use saline nasal sprays. Over-the-counter medications may help but check with a healthcare provider first.

When should I take my child to see a doctor in person?

If your child has difficulty breathing, high fever lasting more than 2 days, severe facial pain or swelling, or worsening symptoms, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is telemedicine safe for managing my child's rhinitis?

Yes, telemedicine is often safe and effective for mild cases. It allows healthcare providers to assess symptoms and guide care remotely. However, serious symptoms require in-person evaluation.

Sources

1. Nonallergic Rhinitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Rhinitis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Rhinitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Rhinitis: Diagnosis and Treatment — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and treatment. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned, seek prompt medical care.