Vasomotor rhinitis occurs if the blood vessels within the nose dilates or expands. It is important to note that rhinitis involves inflammation of the membranes within the nose. Allergens or irritants can trigger the inflammation. The condition is not life-threatening but can be quite uncomfortable.
It is not known what precisely triggers the dilation of the blood vessels in the nose. Some of the usual triggers include:
- Exposure to irritants in the environment such as smog, perfumes, odors or secondhand smoke
- Spicy or hot foods or beverages
- Viral infections such as those linked with flu or common cold
- Changes in the weather especially dry weather
The indications of vasomotor rhinitis might come and go throughout the year. They might be continuous or last for several weeks. - Overusing nasal decongestant sprays
- Medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, beta-blockers, antidepressants, some sedatives, oral contraceptives and drugs for erectile dysfunction
- Stress
- Hypothyroidism
- Hormonal changes linked with menstruation or pregnancy
What are the indications?
The indications of vasomotor rhinitis might come and go throughout the year. They might be continuous or last for several weeks. The usual indications include:
- Runny nose
- Stuffed nose
- Postnasal drip
Management of vasomotor rhinitis
If an individual develops vasomotor rhinitis, there are some remedies that can be used to manage the condition at home such as:
- Over-the-counter saline nasal sprays
- Over-the-counter nasal sprays
- Over-the-counter decongestants
In case the symptoms are severe or side effects arise from using the over-the-counter medications, the doctor might prescribe other medications to manage the symptoms. The medications that the doctor might prescribe include:
- Antihistamine nasal sprays
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Anticholinergic nasal sprays
Surgery might be required in rare instances. Surgical intervention might be beneficial if there is an underlying health issue that aggravates the symptoms.