What is Non-Allergic Rhinitis?

Non-allergic rhinitis is the medical term for inflammation of the lining of the nose which is not caused by an allergy. Inflammation of the inside of the nose causes a swelling, blockage, and the production of more fluid than usual. There are multiple possible causes, but the most common is a viral infection. Besides a blocked and runny nose, symptoms may include facial pain and sneezing. Some people may find their symptoms only last a number of days, others may find their symptoms persist for weeks or months. Treatment depends on the cause, but many people find that the symptoms are helped by breathing warm, humid air, using decongestant sprays, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. In most cases, the symptoms will get better without specific treatment. If there is a known cause, this should be treated or avoided. Most people will have no further problems as a result of non-allergic rhinitis.

Risks

Non-allergic rhinitis is a medical term for inflammation inside the nose which isn’t caused by an allergy. Inflammation causes the lining of the nose to swell and create more fluid (snot) than usual. There are several possible causes for this condition, including viral infections, dust, some medications, hormone disorders, and weather changes.

Symptoms

The main symptom of non-allergic rhinitis is a persistently blocked or runny nose. This may be short-term (days) or long-term (over weeks to months), depending on the cause. Non-allergic rhinitis may also cause face pain, sneezing, a sore nose, or a crust to form around the nostrils. The blocked nose may lead to a reduced sense of smell and taste.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms and a physical examination. An allergy test can rule out the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis.

Treatment

In most cases, treating non-allergic rhinitis involves managing the symptoms. This may be by using decongestant medications, anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, and or by breathing in the warm, humid air. However, if the rhinitis becomes persistent, the underlying cause should be found and treated.

Prevention

Prevention of non-allergic rhinitis includes identifying and avoiding things that make the rhinitis worse. Practicing good hygiene by washing hands regularly and covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, can be helpful in preventing the spread of viral infections and non-allergic rhinitis. If a medication is found to be the cause, this may be able to be stopped or replaced with a medication that does not have this side effect.

Other names for non-allergic rhinitis

• Vasomotor rhinitis

**What is Non-Allergic ‌Rhinitis?**



Non-allergic rhinitis,‌ also known⁤ as vasomotor rhinitis [[2]], is a common ​chronic condition that causes inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages ​without an allergic trigger ⁢ [[1]].



**Symptoms of Non-Allergic Rhinitis:**



* Nasal congestion or runny nose [[1]]

* Sneezing [[1]]

* Itchy nose [[1]]

* Reduced sense of smell ‍ [[1]]



**Causes of Non-Allergic Rhinitis:**



The exact cause of non-allergic rhinitis⁤ is unknown, but triggers can​ include:



* Irritants such as smoke, pollution, or strong odors

* Changes in temperature or humidity

* Hormonal changes​ (such as during pregnancy or menopause)

* Certain medications (such as aspirin‌ or ibuprofen)

* Certain foods or ⁤drinks (such as alcohol or spicy foods)



**Diagnosis ‍of Non-Allergic⁤ Rhinitis:**



Non-allergic ⁣rhinitis is typically diagnosed based on a patient’s symptoms ‌and a physical examination‌ of the nose. A doctor may also perform allergy tests to rule​ out allergies as a cause [[1]].



**Treatment of Non-Allergic Rhinitis:**



There is no cure for non-allergic rhinitis, but symptoms can be managed with:



* Nasal‍ sprays⁤ or drops that contain corticosteroids or antihistamines [[3]]

* Oral‌ antihistamines ​ [[3]]

* Decongestants [[3]]

* Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be beneficial in⁤ some ‌cases



**Lifestyle⁣ Modifications for Non-Allergic Rhinitis:**



In addition to medical​ treatment, lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms:



* Identifying and avoiding triggers [[1]]

* Using⁤ a saline nasal spray or rinse‌ [[3]]

* Keeping the air in your home humidified [[3]]