An inflammatory process that occurs in mucous membranes and is characterized by increased blood flow to the mucosal vessels, edema of the interstitial tissue, enlargement of the secretory epithelial cells, and profuse discharge of mucus and epithelial debris.

How does catarrhal inflammation occur?

Catarrh is usually caused by the immune system reacting to an infection or irritation, which causes the lining of your nose and throat to become swollen and produce mucus. This can be triggered by: a cold or other infections. hay fever or other types of allergic rhinitis.

What does catarrhal mean?

inflammation of a mucous membrane with increased production of mucus, esp affecting the nose and throat in the common cold.