How to Vasomotor Rhinitis & Cough
Vasomotor rhinitis can be a challenge to treat. Perhaps your doctor has tested you for allergies or, you're wondering, why you always seems to have a cold. You may have vasomotor rhinitis, also known as non-allergic rhinitis. The most common symptom is a chronically runny and stuffy nose. According to estimates, more than 17 million children and adults are affected by vasomotor rhinitis in the United States.Find out what triggers vasomotor rhinitis. Learn what to avoid and what treatments work.
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Instructions
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Know that vasomotor rhinitis happens when the blood vessels inside the nose expand, and the lining of the nose swells. It can be difficult to breathe, and the symptoms of constant runny nose can interfere with everyday activities. The symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis are annoying, and can affect quality of life. They include sneezing, runny nose, post nasal drip, and even excessive dryness, the same symptoms as hay fever and the common cold. Allergy testing is important in order to rule out environmental allergies that can be treated successfully. When the cause is not the result of pollens, pets, dust mites or other common allergens it becomes important to find out what triggers vasomotor rhinitis and take action to manage the symptoms.
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Be aware that non-allergic rhinitis, or vasomotor rhinitis is thought to be the result of overly sensitive blood vessels in the nose. Sensitive individuals quickly become symptomatic with changes in temperature, barometric pressure, exposure to aerosols, perfumes, sprays, cigarette smoke and even ozone pollution. The autonomic nervous system controls the contraction and dilation of the blood vessels, making dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system a possible underlying cause. Spring and fall are the worst times of the year for those who suffer from vasomotor rhinitis because of extremes in outside temperatures. Eating certain foods can even trigger an excessively runny nose including foods that are very hot or cold, which might contribute to the problem. Some people experience headache, dizziness, sore throat and fatigue.
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Figuring out why this occurs hasn't been so easy. Researchers aren't sure exactly why vasomotor rhinitis occurs. Women are more commonly affected than men, leading to speculation that hormones play a role. It's possible to experience a mixture of allergic rhinitis alternating with non-allergic rhinitis, making treatment options even more difficult.
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Controlling vasomotor rhinitis takes some personal investigation. Avoidance of exposure to the cause, when possible, is paramount. When that's not possible, such as during weather changes, medications can be used prophylactically.
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Try Ipatropium Bromide (Atrovent) nose spray . This can be used short-term to control an excessively runny nose due to it's anti-cholinergic, or "drying" action. Your doctor may be able to prescribe nasal steroids to control inflammation. The use of a Neti pot if very beneficial to irrigate the nose and wash away irritants. Saline nose sprays can help in the same fashion.Over the counter medications include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), that may have untoward side effects and should be avoided if you have high blood pressure or heart disease. It's important to ask your doctor if pseudoephedrine is safe for you.Nasal decongestants tend to make things worse and really should be avoided. Oral anti-histamines might cause drowsiness and are generally helpful for vasomotor rhinitis. Asteline is an anti-histamine nose spray that requires a prescription, but has been known to help.Consulting a nose, or ENT, specialist might be recommended. Deviated nasal septum or the presence of nasal polyps are known contributors to vasomotor rhinitis, and sometimes surgery can help.Drink plenty of fluids, and use a humidifier in the home. Steam from a vaporizer or hot shower can help relieve nasal stuffiness. Don't get discouraged by vasomotor rhinitis. Once you find what works for you, continue your regimen of self-help faithfully. The more you know about what produces your particular symptoms, the more effectively you can manage your condition.
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Tips & Warnings
Learn how to perform a nasal irrigation:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nasal-lavage/MM00552
Learn about Neti Pots:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/neti-pot/AN01755
If you experience fever in addition to your "normal" symptoms, see your doctor. You may need antibiotic treatment.
