Summary about Disease
Vasomotor rhinitis is a non-allergic condition causing chronic sneezing, congestion, and runny nose. Unlike allergic rhinitis, it isn't triggered by allergens. Instead, various irritants or factors trigger the nasal passages, leading to inflammation and increased mucus production. It's a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other causes of rhinitis (like allergies or infections) must be ruled out first.
Symptoms
Runny nose
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Postnasal drip
Symptoms may fluctuate throughout the day or year.
Symptoms can be triggered by various non-allergic stimuli.
Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to be related to increased sensitivity of the blood vessels and nerve endings in the nasal lining. Potential triggers include:
Irritants: Smoke, pollution, strong odors (perfumes, cleaning products)
Weather changes: Temperature or humidity shifts
Foods and drinks: Spicy foods, alcohol
Medications: Some blood pressure medications, decongestants (with overuse)
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation
Stress
Underlying medical conditions: GERD
Medicine Used
Treatment focuses on symptom management. Common medications include:
Nasal corticosteroids: Fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone (to reduce inflammation)
Antihistamine nasal sprays: Azelastine, olopatadine (to reduce runny nose) - even though it's non-allergic.
Decongestant nasal sprays: Oxymetazoline, phenylephrine (for short-term congestion relief; avoid prolonged use to prevent rebound congestion)
Ipratropium bromide nasal spray: (to dry up nasal secretions)
Saline nasal sprays or irrigation: (to moisturize nasal passages and clear irritants)
Oral decongestants: Pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine (use with caution due to potential side effects)
Is Communicable
No, vasomotor rhinitis is not communicable. It's not caused by a virus or bacteria and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Identify and avoid triggers whenever possible.
Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist, especially in dry environments.
Practice good hygiene (handwashing) to prevent secondary infections.
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
Consult with a doctor before using over-the-counter medications, especially decongestant nasal sprays for extended periods.
How long does an outbreak last?
There are no outbreaks. Vasomotor rhinitis is a chronic condition. Symptoms can be persistent or intermittent, triggered by exposures. The duration of symptoms varies depending on the individual and the specific trigger.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, potential triggers, and medical history.
Allergy testing: Skin prick tests or blood tests (RAST or ImmunoCAP) are performed to rule out allergic rhinitis.
Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the nasal passages to visualize the nasal lining and rule out other structural problems.
Diagnosis of exclusion: Vasomotor rhinitis is often diagnosed when other causes of rhinitis (allergies, infections, structural abnormalities) have been ruled out.
Timeline of Symptoms
Vasomotor rhinitis symptoms do not follow a typical timeline like an infection. The presentation is variable:
Onset: Can start at any age.
Triggers: Symptoms appear shortly after exposure to a specific trigger.
Duration: Symptoms last as long as the trigger is present or until treated.
Fluctuations: Symptoms may worsen or improve depending on environmental factors, stress levels, and medication use. There are no specific stages.
Important Considerations
Vasomotor rhinitis can significantly impact quality of life due to chronic nasal symptoms.
It's important to work with a doctor to identify triggers and develop an effective management plan.
Long-term use of decongestant nasal sprays can worsen symptoms (rebound congestion).
While there is no cure, symptoms can usually be managed effectively with medication and lifestyle modifications.
Coexisting conditions like GERD or hormonal imbalances should be addressed as they can contribute to symptoms.