Nonallergic Rhinitis Information Guide

Nonallergic Rhinitis Information Guide

Persistent nasal congestion and discharge are sometimes mis­takenly diagnosed as allergic rhinitis. They may, however, be due to sinusitis or other respiratory infection, bronchitis, nasal polyps, swollen adenoids, or a mechanical obstruction such as a deviated septum.

Nonallergic rhinitis can also be traced to "rebound conges­tion" from use of nasal sprays more than twice daily for three consecutive days. Hormones and oral contraceptives, certain medications (beta-blockers such as Lopressor and Inderal, va­sodilators, and reserpine derivatives), and drugs, particularly cocaine, can cause runny noses. Still other sources include sud­den temperature changes, alcoholic beverages (mainly beer and wine), air pollution, spicy foods, emotional upsets, and fatigue.

Strong scents such as perfumes, aerosol sprays, household cleaners, laundry detergent, and cigarette smoke can trigger symptoms that may be allergies but are more likely to be reac­tions to irritants rather than allergens, because irritants don't in­volve the immune system.

Short-term use of saltwater nose drops or sprays can some­times relieve symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis. If your nose is running badly, an antihistamine with a decongestant may help.

The common cold is a familiar form of nonallergic rhinitis. Symptoms are a low-grade fever, a thick, yellowish nasal dis­charge, and a general malaise that lasts three to seven days. Un­like allergy, which is not contagious, cold germs can easily spread to other members of the family.