Non-allergic rhinitis
Non-allergic rhinitis is a condition in which you experience chronic sneezing, runny nose or nasal congestion, but the cause is unknown. The symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis are similar to those of an allergic reaction, although an allergic cause cannot be identified Non-allergic rhinitis occurs in both children and adults, although it is more common after the age of 20
Non-allergic rhinitis is not dangerous, although it causes discomfort to a person Triggers for non-allergic rhinitis vary and may include certain odors, irritants in the air, changes in the weather, certain medications, certain foods, and chronic illnesses. Non-allergic rhinitis is diagnosed after allergic causes are ruled out This may require allergy tests
Non-allergic rhinitis occurs when the blood vessels in the nasal cavity dilate excessively, causing the cavity to fill with fluid. There are several possible causes of dilated blood vessels or inflammation of the nasal cavity, but regardless of the cause, the result is the same - swollen nasal membranes and protection of the cavity.
Swelling may develop in non-allergic rhinitis for many reasons Some causes cause short-term symptoms, while others are associated with chronic manifestations Causes of non-allergic rhinitis are:
- Environmental or occupational irritants Dust, smog, second-hand cigarette smoke, strong odors such as those in perfumes may become a provoking factor for rhinitis. Chemical emissions, such as on duty, may also be the cause
- Weather changes Changes in temperature or water content in the air are associated with the development of infiltration and protection or discharge of the membranes of the nasal cavity.
- Infections A frequent cause of non-allergic rhinitis is a viral infection - cold, flu This type of rhinitis usually clears up after a few weeks, but may cause mucus to move from the nasal cavity to the throat Sometimes, this type of rhinitis becomes chronic, causing discolored nasal discharge, facial pain, and sinusitis.
- Food and drinks Non-allergic rhinitis may start when eating, especially with excessively hot, spicy foods Alcoholic beverages may be associated with protection of the nasal cavity
- certain medications Some medications sometimes cause allergic rhinitis These include: aspirin, ibuprofen, blood pressure control (antihypertensive) medicines such as beta-blockers, sedatives, antidepressants, oral contraceptives or drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction Overuse of nasal decongestant sprays causes non-allergic rhinitis, the same as medicated rhinitis.
- hormonal changes Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, use of oral contraceptives, or endocrine diseases may cause rhinitis.
- Stress Emotional or physical stress causes rhinitis in some people
If you have non-allergic rhinitis, symptoms may come and go Symptoms sometimes last for several hours, and sometimes even for several days Signs and symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis include:
- nasal congestion
- nasal discharge
- sneezing
- mucus (phlegm) in the trachea (nasal cavity)
Non-allergic rhinitis generally does not cause itching of the nose, eyes or throat Itching is highly associated with allergic rhinitis
When to see a doctor See a doctor if:
- Symptoms are severe
- Symptoms do not go away or improve with over-the-counter medications and home care
- Mention any side effects of over-the-counter medications
