Non allergic rhinitis has different types:

Vasomotor rhinitis: It is rhinitis which is triggered by physical conditions like strong odors, changes in temperature and humidity, perfumes, smoke, fumes and bright sun light. The symptoms are usually runny nose, post nasal drip and nasal congestion.

Infection rhinitis: It occurs due to infection with virus or bacteria. The symptoms are similar to sinusitis like facial pain and nasal discharge.

Hormonal rhinitis: It can occur during pregnancy and seen in patients with thyroid disease. It is also seen in pregnant women.

Medication induced rhinitis: It occurs in patient using birth control pills, anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and anti hypertensive medications.

Gustatory rhinitis is related to food or alcohol

Complications of non allergic rhinitis:

• Nasal polyps

• Chronic sinusitis.

• Middle ear infections.

Home remedies

Nasal lavage can be done at home using bulb syringe to rinse the nasal passages. This helps to keep away the nasal irritants. If done daily it is one of the most effective treatments for non allergic rhinitis.

Blowing of the nose: Regular and gentle blowing of the nose is helpful if there is any mucus or irritants.

Humidification: Set up the humidifier in the work place and while sleeping. You can also breathe in the steam from a warm shower to help to loosen the mucus in the nose and clear the stuffiness of head.

Tests and diagnosis

• Skin tests are done to rule out allergy.

• X-ray of paranasal sinuses, nasal endoscopy and CT scan of paranasal sinuses are done to rule out the sinusitis.

Treatment of non-allergic rhinitis:

• Oral decongestants
• Saline nasal sprays.
• Antihistamine nasal sprays.
• Ant cholinergic nasal sprays.
• Corticosteroid nasal sprays.