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Vasomotor rhinitis is the inflammation of the membranes that are inside the nose, producing symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy and itchy nose, for example.Typically, this type of rhinitis appears throughout the year and, therefore, is not related to allergies that may arise more often in the spring or summer, for example.
Although there is no proven cure for vasomotor rhinitis, its symptoms can be relieved with some treatments recommended by the doctor, such as using antihistamines or anti-inflammatory drugs, for example.
Main symptoms
The most common symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis include:
- Stuffy nose;
- Constant coryza;
- Feeling of phlegm in the throat;
- Itchy nose;
- Redness in the eyes.
These symptoms can last for several days or weeks and are also similar to rhinitis caused by an allergy, so it can be more difficult to identify the correct cause.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of vasomotor rhinitis is usually made by an otorhinolaryngologist, through a complete examination of the nasal passage, which will present swelling of the mucosa caused by the dilation of blood vessels. Then, the doctor may also order an allergy skin test and blood test to rule out an allergic reaction.
Possible causes of vasomotor rhinitis
Vasomotor rhinitis appears when the blood vessels in the nose dilate, which ends up causing swelling and congestion of the tissues inside the nose. Although the reason why the vessels dilate is not yet known, some causes that may be the cause of rhinitis include:
- Exposure to dry air;
- Change in atmospheric pressure and temperature;
- Strong odors;
- Spicy foods;
- Chemical irritants such as ozone, pollution, perfumes and sprays;
- Nose injuries;
- Diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux and asthma;
- Alcoholism;
- Side effects of medications;
- Strong emotions.
Since vasomotor rhinitis is more common in women, it can also be caused by hormonal changes, which are more common in women due to the menstrual cycle.
How the treatment is done
Vasomotor rhinitis has no cure, however treatment can help reduce the intensity of symptoms and improve quality of life. Some of the most used forms of treatment include:
1. Saline solutions
A good way to relieve the symptoms of rhinitis is by washing the nasal cavities with saline solutions, which can be prepared at home or purchased at pharmacies. Some examples of saline solutions that can be used are Nasoclean or Maresis, for example.
Also learn how to prepare a homemade nasal solution.
2. Nasal decongestants
Nasal decongestants exist in tablet form, as is the case with pseudoephedrine (Allegra), exerting a systemic action, or in topical formulations, such as oxymetazoline (Afrin, Aturgyl) and phenylephrine (Decongex), available in drops or spray. These drugs act by causing vasoconstriction and, consequently, the decrease in blood volume and nasal mucosa, reducing the flow of fluids into the nose.
3. Topical corticosteroids
Spray corticosteroids are highly effective in reducing the symptoms of rhinitis and have the advantage of not causing the same side effects compared to oral corticosteroids.
Some of the drugs that can be used to treat allergic rhinitis are beclomethasone (Beclosol Clenil), budesonide (Budecort, Busonid), fluticasone propionate or furoate (Flixonase) or mometasone furoate (Nasonex), for example
Also learn how the treatment for allergic rhinitis is done.
When surgery is necessary
Surgery for vasomotor rhinitis is usually only indicated in severe cases, when the symptoms are caused by blockage on one side of the nasal cavity by a deviated septum, hypertrophy of the turbinates or the presence of nasal polyps, for example. In these cases, treatment with drugs may not provide relief, and it is necessary to resort to surgery to remove the block.