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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Rhinitis - non-allergic; Idiopathic rhinitisDefinition Return to top
Vasomotor rhinitis is a nonallergic condition that causes a constant runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
See also: Rhinitis
Causes Return to top
Vasomotor rhinitis is not caused by an infection or allergy. The exact cause is unknown. Symptoms are triggered by something that irritates the nose, such as a dry atmosphere, air pollution, spicy foods, alcohol, strong emotions, or certain medications.
Symptoms Return to top
Exams and Tests Return to top
The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, when they occur, and what seems to trigger them.
You will also be asked about your home and work environment. The doctor may look inside your nose and see that the tissues lining the nose are swollen due to inflamed blood vessels.
Blood tests to determine your total serum IgE and total circulating eosinophil count may be ordered.
Treatment Return to top
The primary treatment is simply avoiding the things that trigger your symptoms.
In some cases, decongestants or a nasal spray containing an antihistamine may help. Corticosteroid nasal sprays may be useful for some forms of vasomotor rhinitis.
References Return to top
Wallace DV, Dykewicz MS, Bernstein DI, Blessing-Moore J, Cox L, Khan DA, et al. The diagnosis and management of rhinitis: an updated practice parameter. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008 Aug:122(2).
Update Date: 1/5/2009 Updated by: Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
