What do the terms “atrophic” and “rhinitis” mean?

What do the terms “atrophic” and “rhinitis” mean?

You might better understand this condition when you break it down:

• Atrophic or atrophy is the medical term for the shrinking, thinning or loss of tissue. With atrophic rhinitis, a thin layer of expandable tissue called mucosa inside of your nose becomes thinner and then hardens. This tissue covers bones called the turbinates that warm, humidify and filter the air you breathe. The turbinate bones may also shrink or become thinner.
• Rhinitis is swelling (edema) and inflammation of your nasal passages. This inflammation affects your respiratory system, causing breathing problems.