Which finding is not typically associated with allergic rhinitis?

Which finding is not typically associated with allergic rhinitis?

• A. Itchy, watery eyes
• B. Nasal obstruction with sneezing
• C. Pale boggy turbinates
• D. Unilateral purulent nasal discharge

Answer: (D)

Allergic rhinitis is an IgE-mediated inflammation of the nasal mucosa that causes itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, and often itchy, watery eyes. On exam, the nasal mucosa is typically pale and boggy due to edema, and the discharge is usually clear and non-purulent. Finding unilateral purulent nasal discharge is not typical of allergic rhinitis because purulence suggests a localized infection, such as bacterial sinusitis or a foreign body, rather than a diffuse allergic process. If purulent discharge appears, especially with fever or facial pain, it points toward sinusitis rather than primary allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis is an IgE-mediated inflammation of the nasal mucosa that causes itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, and often itchy, watery eyes. On exam, the nasal mucosa is typically pale and boggy due to edema, and the discharge is usually clear and non-purulent. Finding unilateral purulent nasal discharge is not typical of allergic rhinitis because purulence suggests a localized infection, such as bacterial sinusitis or a foreign body, rather than a diffuse allergic process. If purulent discharge appears, especially with fever or facial pain, it points toward sinusitis rather than primary allergic rhinitis.