Chronic stuffy or runny nose (non-allergic rhinitis)

Overview

Non-allergic rhinitis causes a stuffy or runny nose without allergies.

Triggers include weather, smells, smoke, spicy food, and some medicines.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Ongoing runny nose

Less common

• Postnasal drip
• Sneezing
• Stuffy nose with temperature changes

When to get medical care

Causes

Triggers.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis by history.

Treatment

Avoid triggers.

Self-care

• Saline rinses
• Rinse with saline
• Avoid smoke and strong smells
• Use a humidifier
• Try a saline spray before bed

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid triggers

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an allergist (allergy and asthma doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults over 20: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Manageable.

Symptoms can be controlled with sprays.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Could my medicines cause this?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Chronic stuffy or runny nose (non-allergic rhinitis)