Learn More: Stuffy, Runny Nose
Causes: Nonallergic Vasomotor Rhinitis
Rhinitis (irritation of the nose) can be caused by either an allergic reaction or a nonallergic reaction.
Vasomotor rhinitis falls into the nonallergic category, though the exact cause is unknown.
Vasomotor means related to the constriction and/or dilation of blood vessels. And what happens during vasomotor rhinitis is that the blood vessels of the nose overreact to certain triggers, such as:
- Cold temperatures
- Dry conditions
- Smoke
- Perfumes
- Stress
- Alcohol
- Spicy foods
- Bright lights
The main symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis are congestion and/or runny nose (with a thin, clear drainage) but may also include irritated eyes, and, less often, sneezing.
There's no cure for vasomotor rhinitis, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.
