Issue Date: March 22, 2009
Got the sniffles?
A cold or an allergy may not be the culprit.
For some, a runny nose is a rarity. For others, it's a constant reality. Many assume colds or allergies cause all nasal symptoms, but that's not so. In fact, a group of conditions called "non-allergic rhinitis" causes the same misery. It's important to distinguish non-allergic rhinitis from allergies because treatment varies. Some causes of non-allergic rhinitis include:
Infection. This is usually caused by one of several viruses. Clues to distinguish infections from allergies: thick/discolored drainage, facial pain and fever.
Environmental or on-the-job irritants. Dust, smog, secondhand smoke or strong odors can trigger non-allergic rhinitis. Fumes, such as those you might be exposed to in certain occupations, also may be to blame.
Medications. Blood pressure medicines, antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and birth control pills have been associated with nasal symptoms.
Hormones. Fluctuating levels of estrogen (with menstrual cycles, pregnancy, etc.) are linked to nasal symptoms in many women.
Food. In general, food -- especially anything that's hot and spicy -- can make the nasal and sinus passages drain.
Contributing Editor Tedd Mitchell, M.D., is the co-author of "Move Yourself: The Cooper Clinic Medical Director's Guide to All the Healing Benefits of Exercise (Even a Little!)."
Want to know more about allergy and sinus relief? Click here.
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