Have you ever have spouse or child who sneeze every morning or have a runny nose when there is dust or the temperature suddenly change from hot to cold?
That is vasomotor rhinitis or sensitive nose.
Vasomotor Rhinitis ( A Simple Guide to Vasomotor Rhinitis) is a condition which consists of a group of symptoms that include a runny nose, itchiness and sneezing, that are caused by irritation and congestion in the nose.
It is brought about by changes in vascular tone and permeability.
The symptoms of Vasomotor rhinitis include:
Recurring nasal inflammation
Nasal membrane swelling
Sneezing
Runny nose
Profuse watery nasal discharge
Vasomotor rhinitis (Idiopathic/irritant rhinitis) occurs as a result of a response of the nasal membrane to
1.irritants such as smoke, and many other air pollutants,
2.strong odours,
3.alcohol.
4.changes in temperature and
5.stress.
Other causes of chronic rhinitis are blockage in the nose e.g. nasal polyps, enlarged adenoids and a deviated septum that impede mucus drainage and restrict air flow.
Medications can cause rhinitis or worsen it in people with allergies, vasomotor rhinitis or a deviated septum.
Prolonged use of nasal decongestants can worsen rhinitis.
Some blood pressure medications such as beta blockers and vasodilators can cause rhinitis.
Smoking and air pollution may also cause symptoms by damaging the cilia (hair cells) which moves mucus through the air passages.
Hormonal changes in pregnancy cause "Rhinitis in Pregnancy". The expecting mother will recover once the baby is delivered.
Treatments for Vasomotor rhinitis include:
Non-medical:
Avoid dry air
Keeping air moist
Vaporisers
Decongestants are not recommended for treatment of vasomotor rhinitis
Complete avoidance of environmental allergens may be impossible but it can be minimised for example removing carpets and pets.
Use a pollen mask when mowing the grass or cleaning the house;
install an air purifier or at least change the air filters monthly in heating and air conditioning systems;
use cotton or synthetic materials such as Dacron in pillows and bedding;
enclose mattress in plastic;
keep windows closed during high pollen times;
eliminate house plants; and bathe pets frequently or even give away dander–producing pets.
Nasal irrigation utilizing a buffered hypertonic saline solution helps to reduce swollen and congested nasal and sinus tissues. In addition, it washes out thickened nasal secretions, irritants (smog, pollens, etc.), bacteria, and crusts from the nose and sinuses.
While irrigating the nose, it is best to stand over the sink and irrigate each side of your nose. Aim the stream toward the back of your head, not at the top of your head..
Medical:
Anti-histamines provide good relief for mild to moderate symptoms.
Newer antihistamines that are long-acting and less likely to cause drowsiness have been found to be useful.
Corticosteroids in the form of nasal spray reduce the immune response and may be prescribed to reduce severe symptoms.
They are best used for the short term management of allergic problems, and their use must always be monitored by a physician.
Nasalcrom (cromolyn sodium): This spray helps to stabilize allergy cells (mast cells) by preventing release of allergy mediators, like histamine.
Immunotherapy:
Allergy shots interfere with the allergic response. After identification of an allergen, small amounts of it are given back to the sensitive patient. Over time the patient will develop blocking antibodies to the allergen, and they become less sensitive and less reactive to the substance causing allergic symptoms.
Surgery:
Nasal polyps, enlarged adenoids and deviated septum can be corrected with surgery.
Obviously this should be done only after more conservative measures have been tried.
Surgery is not a replacement for good allergy control and treatment.
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