Rhinitis (non-allergic)

What is non-allergic rhinitis?

The word “rhinitis” is defined as inflammation of the nasal passages. “Non-allergic rhinitis” is a condition that causes chronic sneezing, congestion or runny nose.1 Unlike allergic rhinitis, this condition does not involve the immune system and it is not caused by allergies. 1
It rarely causes itchy nose, eyes or throat.1

What can cause non-allergic rhinitis?

• Airborne irritants: tobacco smoke, traffic fumes, strong scents and fragrances

• Changes in weather: fluctuations in temperature, humidity, pressure

• Heated or spicy foods

How can this condition be diagnosed?

It is important to diagnose this condition so it can be treated appropriately. Because the symptoms can be so similar to allergic rhinitis, your allergist will often complete allergy skin testing to rule out allergic rhinitis.

Is this condition treatable?

Although non-allergic rhinitis is not curable, it can be treated. Treatment of non-allergic rhinitis includes the following:

1.    Trigger avoidance

• Ensure household members stop smoking or smoke only outside of the home

• Avoid wood-burning stoves and fireplaces

• Avoid using strong perfumes and encourage coworkers, family or friends to do the same
  

2.    Nasal saline rinses

• Rinsing nose with salt water once or multiple times a day may be helpful

• This may be helpful for postnasal drip

• This can be done before using other nasal medications

• You may talk to your pharmacist who may recommend a nasal irrigation kit
  

3.    Medications that may help your symptoms

• Intranasal corticosteroids: please see allergic rhinitis section for more information

• Combination intranasal corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal spray: please see allergic rhinitis section for more information

• Nasal ipratropium: this can be used when there is profuse, watery discharge from the nose (rhinorrhea). Especially useful for gustatory rhinitis (see below)

• Nasal capsaicin: capsaicin is an active ingredient found in chili peppers. It is an over-the-counter spray

• Decongestants: can relieve symptoms of congestion, but should only be used if nasal corticosteroids do not work
  

4.    Medications that may worsen your symptoms:

• Birth control pills

• Some blood pressure medications (alpha-blockers, beta-blockers)

• Antidepressants

• Medications for erectile dysfunction

• Some medications for prostate enlargement