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Vasomotor rhinitis - Overview

Alternative Names

Rhinitis - non-allergic; Idiopathic rhinitis

Definition of Vasomotor rhinitis:

Vasomotor rhinitis is a nonallergic condition that causes a constant runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Vasomotor rhinitis is not caused by an infection or allergy. The exact cause is unknown. Symptoms are triggered by something that irritates the nose, such as a dry atmosphere, air pollution, spicy foods, alcohol, strong emotions, or certain medications.

Nasal mucosa

Reviewed last on: 1/5/2009
Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wallace DV, Dykewicz MS, Bernstein DI, Blessing-Moore J, Cox L, Khan DA, et al. The diagnosis and management of rhinitis: an updated practice parameter. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008 Aug:122(2).

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