Non-Allergic Rhinitis
Most common form of Irritant rhinitis describes as a group of rhinitis, not caused by infection or allergy. The symptoms usually afflict adults’ women but man can also be affected. Personal history of allergy is negative It cause year-round symptoms. Nasal stuffiness and headache is most common complain as opposed to sneezing, runny nose & eye, commonly seen in allergic rhinitis.
Vasomotor rhinitis seems to be an amplification of the normal nasal response to Irritation, occurring at levels of exposure, which do not bother most people. These patients are unusually sensitive to irritation and will have significant nasal symptoms even when exposed to low concentrations of irritants. It occurs more often in smokers.
Common irritants that can trigger symptoms include: cigarette smoke, strong odors and fumes, perfume, hair spray, cosmetics, laundry detergents, cleaning solutions, swimming pool chlorine, car exhaust fumes and other air pollution, spices used in cooking, alcoholic beverages (particularly beer end wine), and abrupt changes in weather or temperature. Skiers often develop runny nose, but in some people any cold exposure may cause a runny nose. Others start sneezing when leaving a cold, air-conditioned room.
These agents are not allergens and do not induce formation of allergic antibodies. Do not produce positive skin test reactions but skin testing is done to exclude allergic rhinitis. Occasionally one to two positive skin test reactions may be observed, but they do not match with the history and are not relevant or significant.
Control Measures:
- Limit exposure to substances that cause symptoms
- Taking medication when symptomatic; Antihistamine, Antihistamine or Cortisone nasal spray
- Do not smoke or permit smoking in homes
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is not indicated for these patients
Rhinitis Medicamentosa
Rhinitis Medicamentosa, which occurs when over the counter topical decongestant (nose spray) are used in excess, often more than 3 days. This causes a rebound severe congestion leading to nasal blockage. Treatment is stopping of topical decongestant and use of short course of oral cortisone and regular use of topical cortisone nasal spray.