Vasomotor rhinitis, a condition that causes you to have frequent colds for no reason

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the lining of the nose. Rhinitis is divided into rhinitis caused by allergens and rhinitis which is not caused by allergens or vasomotor rhinitis. If allergic rhinitis is caused by allergens, then what causes vasomotor rhinitis?

What is vasomotor rhinitis?

Vasomotor rhinitis or also known as nonallergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the lining of the nose whose symptoms include chronic sneezing or nasal congestion, or passing mucus without a definite cause.

Although they cause symptoms that may make you uncomfortable, they are generally harmless.

Rhinitis often occurs in adults after the age of 20. Women have twice the risk compared to men.

What are the causes and triggers for vasomotor rhinitis?

The exact cause of vasomotor rhinitis is unknown. However, this condition occurs when the blood vessels in the nose dilate, causing swelling. The dilation of the vessels in the nose also produces blood or fluid in the nose, causing the nose to become blocked.

There are several possible causes for the swelling in the nose. One of them is that the nerve endings in the nose are hyperresponsive, which is the excessive response of the nasal nerves to various stimuli.

Some of the triggers that can cause vasomotor rhinitis or non-allergic rhinitis include:

1. Irritation from the environment

Environmental irritation is the most common trigger of nonallergic rhinitis. Some may be found at home and others occur more frequently at work.

Examples of what can trigger symptoms include dust, cigarette smoke, factory fumes, vehicle fumes, or pungent odors such as perfume.

2. Medicines

Certain drugs include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin (Bayer) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Kb pills, hypertension drugs such as beta blockers (Propanol, Metoprolol, Atenolol), some sedatives, drugs for erectile dysfunction, and antidepressants.

3. Food and drink

Hot and spicy foods can also trigger non-allergic rhinitis. In addition, alcoholic drinks can also trigger this condition.

4. Weather changes

Sudden changes in temperature or humidity can also trigger nonallergic rhinitis. For example during the rainy season, people often get colds or in some cases, people start sneezing after leaving a cold room.

5. Hormonal changes

Nonallergic rhinitis often occurs when there is a hormonal imbalance in the body. For example, during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy.

It usually starts in the second month of pregnancy and lasts until delivery. Hormonal conditions such as hypothyroidism can also trigger these symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis

Nonallergic rhinitis symptoms may go away and appear throughout the year. Symptoms last only a few weeks. Common symptoms that may occur include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, phlegm in the throat, and coughing.

The symptoms may be similar to allergic rhinitis. However, nonallergic rhinitis does not cause an itchy nose, eyes, and throat.

Can vasomotor rhinitis be prevented?

Prevention of non-allergic rhinitis can be done by knowing the causes and triggers. Avoid the triggers that can cause this condition.

Reducing the use of nasal decongestants can also prevent this condition. While this medication can provide short-term treatment for your symptoms, using it for more than three or four days can actually worsen your symptoms.

If your symptoms get worse, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will diagnose any health problems that may worsen your symptoms. The doctor will also provide the appropriate treatment for your symptoms.