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| VASOMOTOR RHINITIS (A.K.A. IDIOPATHIC NON-ALLERGIC RHINITIS) IMPORTANT: The information providied is of a general nature and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. If you think you may suffer from an allergic or other disease that requires attention, you should discuss it with your doctor. What is Vasosmotor Rhinitis? The term Vasomotor Rhinitis (VMR)or idiopathic non-allergic rhinitis is used to describe rhinitis that is caused by a reaction to irritants. This reaction to irritants causes an inflammatory reaction in the lining (mucosa) of the nasal passages. Typical symptoms include stuffy nose, runny nose and sneezing. I had allergy tests done and they were all negative. How can this be? Allergy tests measure one specific type of reaction--that caused by the immunoglobulin IgE. There are many other types of adverse reactions that are not caused by IgE and VMR is one of these. (**Ask Dr. Khare abou the "hammer analogy" that explains this well) Can I have more than one type of Rhinitis? Actually, mixed rhinitis is the most common type of rhinitis. What are some of the things that can trigger VMR? Some of the common irritants include dry air, cigarette smoke, pollutants, alcohol, stron emotions, dust, airborne particles, cold air, perfumes, cleaning products and airborne toxins. How is the diagnosis of VMR made? Of course, every medical diagnosis begins with a detailed history and thorough physical exam. Skin tests, x-rays, nasal smears, and blood tests may be done to rule out other causes of rhinitis. How is VMR treated? Typically, VMR requires a combination of treatments. These include avoidance or reduction of irritant exposure, nasal saline washes, medications (such as antihistamines, anticholinergics, anti-inflammatories and decongestants). There are also some surgical approaches that have been shown to be helpful. |
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