Rhinitis involves inflammation of the nasal membranes. Various allergens or irritants can trigger the inflammation. Nevertheless, there are instances in which there is no specific cause.
Vasomotor rhinitis is not considered dangerous. Those who are affected by the condition will find the symptoms annoying but they are not serious.
Causes of vasomotor rhinitis
When it comes to vasomotor rhinitis, it develops once the blood vessels within the nose dilates or expands. The dilation of the vessels in the nose leads to swelling and cause congestion. In some cases, there is drainage of mucus from the nose.
It is still not known what the exact cause why the blood vessels in the nose swell. Some of the usual triggers that can trigger this reaction include:
- Changes in the weather especially dry weather
- Exposure to irritants in the environment such as odors, perfumes, smog or secondhand smoke
Preventing this type of rhinitis can be a difficult task if the exact cause is not determined. - Hot or spicy foods or beverages
- Viral infections such as flu or common cold
- Medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin
What are the indications?
The indications of vasomotor rhinitis can come and go throughout the year. The symptoms can last several weeks or constant. The usual indications of the condition include the following:
- Runny nose
- Stuffed nose
- Postnasal drip
Treatment
If an individual ends up with vasomotor rhinitis, there are a number of measures that can be utilized to manage the condition such as the following:
- Over-the-counter saline nasal sprays
- Over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants
- Over-the-counter corticosteroid nasal sprays
In case of severe symptoms or side effects from the over-the-counter medications develop, the doctor might provide other medications to manage the symptoms. The commonly used prescription medications include:
- Antihistamine nasal sprays
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Anticholinergic nasal sprays
In rare instances, the doctor might suggest surgery to help manage the symptoms. The surgical options are useful if there is an underlying health condition that aggravates the symptoms.
Preventive measures
Preventing this type of rhinitis can be a difficult task if the exact cause is not determined. If the potential causes could not be identified, it is impossible to avoid the condition. Remember that avoidance of the recognized triggers can reduce the symptoms and the ensuing discomfort.
If the symptoms are severe, a doctor must be consulted so that the suitable treatment can be given. Health issues are also diagnosed that might be responsible for aggravating the symptoms.