Chronic cough in children can indeed be related to rhinitis. Typically, when the nasal mucosa is irritated, it triggers a set of common symptoms, much like how the skin responds with pain when pricked. Common reactions include itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose. However, rhinitis in children also has some distinctive features, and in many cases, a child's persistent cough is actually caused by rhinitis.

When parents bring their children to the doctor, they often report that the child's cough has not improved for a long time. When the doctor suggests seeing an ENT specialist to check for rhinitis, parents are frequently puzzled, wondering how a cough could be related to rhinitis. In fact, many people are still unclear about the connection between cough and rhinitis. According to statistics, approximately 40% to 50% of chronic cough cases in children are due to uncontrolled rhinitis.

This highlights the need to shift certain preconceived notions. Many believe that their child’s lingering cold or bronchitis is the problem, but in reality, the true issue may lie with rhinitis. Over time, the use of antibiotics or other medications might incidentally treat the underlying rhinitis, which in turn leads to the resolution of the so-called bronchitis.

It’s crucial to understand the importance of the nasal cavity in the respiratory system. The nose serves as the first line of defense, acting as the gateway to the respiratory tract by humidifying, warming, and filtering the air we breathe. If this first line of defense is compromised, it can have a significant impact on our health. This explains why more and more people are paying attention to rhinitis, even if they may not fully grasp the purpose. The key to addressing rhinitis lies in protecting this first line of defense, which is essential for maintaining overall respiratory health.