Vasomotor Rhinitis: Symptoms and Treatments

Vasomotor rhinitis is a type of non-allergic rhinitis characterized by chronic nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose without an identifiable allergic cause.

Unlike allergic rhinitis, which is triggered by allergens such as pollen or pet dander, vasomotor rhinitis is often triggered by irritants like strong odors, temperature changes, and smoke.

Vasomotor rhinitis is a non-allergic form of rhinitis that results from abnormal regulation of the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. The condition can affect individuals of all ages, including children, and is often chronic, significantly impacting the quality of life.

Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!

Get A Second Opinion

Symptoms of Vasomotor Rhinitis

The symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis can be persistent and bothersome. Common symptoms include:

Chronic Nasal Congestion: Persistent blockage of nasal passages.
Runny Nose: Continuous discharge of clear nasal mucus.
Sneezing: Frequent and uncontrollable bouts of sneezing.
Postnasal Drip: Sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat.
Nasal Itching: Itching in the nasal passages without an allergic trigger.

Vasomotor Rhinitis vs. Allergic Rhinitis

It's essential to distinguish between vasomotor rhinitis and allergic rhinitis, as they require different management approaches. While both conditions share similar symptoms, they have distinct causes.

Vasomotor Rhinitis: Triggered by irritants such as smoke, strong odors, alcohol, spicy foods, and changes in weather.
Allergic Rhinitis: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. Allergic rhinitis is often accompanied by itchy eyes and throat, which are less common in vasomotor rhinitis.

Causes of Vasomotor Rhinitis

The exact cause of vasomotor rhinitis is not well understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:

Environmental Irritants: Exposure to smoke, strong odors, and pollutants.
Weather Changes: Sudden temperature or humidity changes.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause.
Medications: Certain medications, such as beta-blockers and oral contraceptives.
Stress and Emotions: Psychological stress and emotional factors can exacerbate symptoms.

Diagnosis of Vasomotor Rhinitis

Diagnosing vasomotor rhinitis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider. The diagnostic process typically includes:

Medical History: Detailed history of symptoms and potential triggers.
Physical Examination: Nasal examination to assess the condition of the nasal passages.
Allergy Testing: Skin prick tests or blood tests to rule out allergic rhinitis.
Nasal Endoscopy: A small camera inserted into the nose to examine the nasal passages and rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Vasomotor Rhinitis

Treatment for vasomotor rhinitis focuses on symptom management and improving the patient's quality of life. Several treatment options are available:

Medications

Nasal Steroids: Reduce inflammation and nasal congestion.
Antihistamines: Help alleviate sneezing and runny nose, even though vasomotor rhinitis is non-allergic.
Anticholinergic Nasal Sprays: Reduce nasal secretions.
Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion but should be used with caution due to potential side effects.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid environmental triggers like smoke, strong odors, and temperature changes.
Nasal Irrigation: Rinse nasal passages with saline solution to reduce mucus and irritants.
Humidifiers: Use humidifiers to maintain optimal humidity levels in the home.
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to keep nasal passages moist.

Surgical Options

In severe cases where medications and lifestyle changes are ineffective, surgical options may be considered:

Turbinate Reduction: Surgical reduction of the nasal turbinates to improve airflow.
Septoplasty: Correcting a deviated septum that may contribute to nasal obstruction.
Nerve Block: Blocking the nerves responsible for nasal secretions.

Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!

Book an Appointment

Vasomotor Rhinitis in Children

Children can also be affected by vasomotor rhinitis, which can impact their daily activities and school performance. Symptoms in children are similar to those in adults and include nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Managing vasomotor rhinitis in children requires a careful approach to avoid unnecessary medications and focus on non-pharmacological interventions.

Find Our Specialists