By Dr. Major Rajesh Kumar Bhardwaj, Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT)
Nonallergic Rhinitis is when you have a drippy nose as well as chronic sneezing for no apparent reason. Non-allergic rhinitis has exactly the same symptoms of a hay fever except for the fact that there are no symptoms of an allergic reaction present. Even though non-allergic rhinitis can affect both children and adults, it is more common in people over 20 years of age. There are various triggers of non-allergic rhinitis including certain odors and irritants in the air as well as certain medications, foods and changes in weather. Here are the causes and symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis…
Causes-
While the exact causes of non-allergic rhinitis are still not known, there are certain factors which are known to trigger non-allergic rhinitis…
1. Changes in Weather
When the temperature or humidity level changes, the membranes of your nose may swell which may cause a runny nose.
2. Irritants
Chemical fumes, dust, smog, perfumes, secondhand smoke and other such irritants are known to trigger non-allergic rhinitis.
3. Infections
Viral infections such as the flu and common cold are known to trigger non-allergic rhinitis.
4. Medications
There are certain medications which are known to trigger non-allergic rhinitis including beta blockers and ibuprofen.
5. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy, menstruation, hypothyroidism and other hormonal imbalances may cause non-allergic rhinitis.
6. Certain Goods
Hot or spicy foods as well as alcoholic beverages are known to cause non-allergic rhinitis as well.
Symptoms-
1. Runny nose
2. Sneezing
3. Cough
4. Mucus in the throat
If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an ear-nose-throat-ent-specialist and ask a free question.