Symptoms do not correlate with a particular season. They can come and go throughout the year or last year-round with little relief. Allergic rhinitis patients report sneezing and a congested and/or runny nose. The often unrelenting symptoms can make people uncomfortable and less productive at work.
Researchers understand that nonallergic rhinitis results from nasal blood vessels expanding, but they have not pinpointed what exactly causes this phenomenon. Some common triggers that may result in nonallergic rhinitis include:
- Hormone changes and hypothyroidism
- Environmental hazards like smog and cigarette smoke
- Laundry detergent
- Perfume and hair spray
- Overuse of nasal sprays
- Certain medications
- Weather changes
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
When a patient comes in complaining of rhinitis symptoms, we will take a comprehensive look at symptoms and medical history. We may run a combination of lab and comprehensive skin tests to see whether or not allergic rhinitis explains your issues. A nonallergic rhinitis diagnosis means no allergy can explain your symptoms.
Once you receive a nonallergic rhinitis diagnosis, Dr. Schulte will detail over-the-counter and prescription nasal sprays that can help alleviate your discomfort.
Nonallergic (Vasomotor) Rhinitis Facts
About 19 million Americans have nonallergic rhinitis. By comparison, 58 million have allergic rhinitis.
Anyone can suffer from non allergenic rhinitis, but it most commonly occurs after age 20.
In contrast to seasonal allergies, nonallergic rhinitis typically does not cause itchy nose, throat or eyes.