Health Encyclopedia

Vasomotor rhinitis

Definition

Vasomotor rhinitis is a non-allergic condition that causes a constant runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.

Alternative Names

Rhinitis - non-allergic; Idiopathic rhinitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The exact cause of vasomotor rhinitis is unknown. It may be a hypersensitive response to a dry atmosphere, air pollutants, spicy foods, alcohol, strong emotions, or some medications. Vasomotor rhinitis is not caused by an infection or allergy.

Symptoms

Runny nose
Sneezing
Watery nasal drainage (rhinorrhea)
Blood vessel congestion of the mucous membranes in the nose

Signs and tests

The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, when they occur, and what triggers them. You will also be asked about your home and work environment. Blood tests to determine your total serum IgE and total circulating eosinophil count may be ordered.

Treatment

The primary treatment is avoidance of the trigger. In some cases, medications, such as antihistamines or decongestants, may be prescribed. Intranasal corticosteroids are usually reserved for allergic rhinitis, but may be useful for some forms of vasomotor rhinitis.

References

Lal D, Corey JP. Vasomotor rhinitis update. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2004 Jun;12(3):243-7.

Murray J, Nadel J. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2000:1279-1280.

Dykewicz MS. Rhinitis and sinusitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. Feb. 2003; 111(2 Suppl): S520-9.

Review Date:7/25/2007
Reviewed By:James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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