Nonallergic rhinitis is a common condition that occurs when your nose becomes irritated, often leading to nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
Unlike its more familiar counterpart, allergic rhinitis (hayfever), it is not caused by an allergic reaction.
Common Causes of Nonallergic Rhinitis
Some of the most common causes of nonallergic rhinitis include:
- Infections: Such as the common cold, which can lead to nonallergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can be associated with nonallergic rhinitis.
- Medications: Some medications, including ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen, can lead to nonallergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Diet and Lifestyle: Consuming alcohol and spicy foods may contribute to nonallergic rhinitis in some people.
- Weather Changes: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels are known to trigger nonallergic rhinitis, sometimes referred to as “vasomotor rhinitis.”
- Nasal Spray Overuse: Using decongestant nasal sprays too frequently can also cause nonallergic rhinitis.
- Hormonal Changes: Nonallergic rhinitis can be influenced by hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy or puberty, or as a side effect of medications like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and birth control pills.
- Environmental Irritants: Exposure to smoke, strong odours, paint fumes, and perfume can irritate the nasal passages and lead to nonallergic rhinitis symptoms.
How to Treat Nonallergic Rhinitis at Home
Spraying a saltwater solution into your nose can help to rinse and unblock your nose, here’s how you can safely create your own solution:
- Add a pint of water to a suitable container
- Add one heaped teaspoon of salt
- Add half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda
- Shake or mix thoroughly
You should aim to use the solution a few times a day, and may notice a slight burning sensation in your nose – simply blow your nose if this happens.
After a week, you should discard whatever remains of your mixture, and if you still need to use it, make a new one.
Order Your Prescription Online with Healthera
If our saltwater solution hasn’t helped relieve your symptoms, and your doctor has suggested a medication like betamethasone nasal spray, then you order it online from your local pharmacy with Healthera.
It only takes a few minutes to set up your order for collection or home delivery.
To get started, simply click the button below:
