Viral rhinitis is a common, morbid, and costly malady, often complicated by otitis media, sinusitis, and asthma. Current therapies are relatively ineffective and aimed at reducing symptoms rather than moderating underlying mechanisms. Nasal elevations of proinflammatory cytokines track symptom expression during viral rhinitis, and it is hypothesized that these chemicals orchestrate a common response to infection with many different viruses that cause rhinitis. Also, recent evidence supports a role for neurogenic inflammation in the development of complications. Future studies should dissect the role of proinflammatory cytokines and neuropeptides in the expression of symptoms, signs, pathophysiologies, and complications of viral rhinitis. In TCM, when people are tired or catch cold, the body resistance will decline. This is the inducing pathogenic factor of acute rhinitis. Secondary bacterial infection may occur after the first viral infection. The disease is called "Shangfeng Bise" (nasal obstruction due to attack by cold).