Symptoms of Non-Allergic Rhinitis

Nonallergic rhinitis is a sinus condition that mimics hay fever (allergic rhinitis)--yet without the itchy eyes, nose and throat. It's important to note that nonallergic rhinitis is not exacerbated by exposure to airborne allergens such as pollens and molds that irritate the sinus passages, but it's caused by things such as environmental fumes, medications and even habitual use of nasal sprays. More bothersome than life-threatening, nonallergic rhinitis can be managed with certain oral and nasal treatments, as well as by avoiding "triggers" that make symptoms worse.

What is Nonallergic Rhinitis?

• Nonallergic rhinitis appears to have the same earmarks as allergic rhinitis--a runny, stuffy nose that never seems to get better. Nonallergic rhinitis occurs when the blood vessels in the nose lining expand and cause swelling--thereby causing excessive mucus production. Nonallergic rhinitis has numerous triggers, but these typically include fumes, odors and air pollution. Others may include changes in barometric pressure, use of certain medication, consumption of certain foods, and underlying health conditions.

Diagnosing Nonallergic Rhinitis

• Physicians typically diagnose nonallergic rhinitis by process of elimination. In addition to a physical examination, skin testing and blood testing may be conducted to rule out the presence of allergies. Other underlying causes of rhinitis symptoms may include a deviated septum or nasal polyps. A doctor may recommend certain imaging tests, such as a nasal endoscopy or a CT scan of the sinuses to ensure these conditions do not exist.

Nonallergic Rhinitis Triggers

• Nonallergic rhinitis may develop when an individual is exposed to excessive smog, exhaust, cigarette smoke, or fumes in the workplace--including jet fuel and exhaust, solvents or chemicals. Prolonged use of nasal drops or sprays, even those that are sold over the counter, may trigger nonallergic rhinitis. Health conditions such as asthma, lupus or cystic fibrosis may also cause this condition. Women are more predisposed to nonallergic rhinitis.

Treatment of Nonallergic Rhinitis

• Mild cases of nonallergic rhinitis may be managed by avoiding circumstances and environments that trigger it, while more unwieldy cases might include medical management. Treatment for nonallergic rhinitis might include over-the-counter or prescription oral decongestants; or saline, antihistamine, decongestant, corticosteroid, or anti-drip anticholingergic nasal sprays. The Mayo Clinic warns that over-the-counter oral antihistamines--such as Benadryl, Tavist and Claritin--usually do not work well in treating nonallergic rhinitis.

Preventive Measures

• Nonallergic rhinitis may be a pervasive condition; however, symptoms can be reduced by avoiding triggers that make it worse (such as cigarette fumes and exhaust). Avoiding overuse of nasal decongestants is important, as using these too frequently can often exacerbate symptoms. The key in successfully managing nasal rhinitis lies in finding a successful treatment regime with the assistance of a physician.