Nonallergic rhinitis occurs when blood vessels in your nose expand (dilate), filling the nasal lining with blood and fluid. There are several possible causes of this abnormal expansion of the blood vessels or inflammation in the nose. But, whatever the trigger, the result is the same — swollen nasal membranes and congestion.
Many things can trigger the nasal swelling in nonallergic rhinitis, resulting in short-lived symptoms, while others cause chronic problems. Nonallergic rhinitis triggers include:
Environmental or Occupational Irritants: Dust, smog, secondhand smoke, or strong odors, such as perfumes, can trigger nonallergic rhinitis. Chemical fumes, such as those you might be exposed to in certain occupations, also may be to blame.
Weather Changes: Temperature or humidity changes can trigger the membranes inside your nose to swell and cause a runny or stuffy nose.
Infections: A common cause of nonallergic rhinitis is a viral infection — a cold or the flu, for example. This type of nonallergic rhinitis usually clears up after a few weeks but can cause lingering mucus in the throat (postnasal drip). Sometimes, this type of rhinitis can become chronic, causing ongoing discolored nasal discharge, facial pain, and pressure (sinusitis).
Foods and Beverages: Nonallergic rhinitis may occur when you eat, especially when eating hot or spicy foods. Drinking alcoholic beverages also may cause the membranes inside your nose to swell, leading to nasal congestion.
Certain Medications: Some medications can cause nonallergic rhinitis. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), and high blood pressure (hypertension) medications, such as beta-blockers. Nonallergic rhinitis can also be triggered by sedatives, antidepressants, oral contraceptives, or drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can cause a type of nonallergic rhinitis called rhinitis medicamentosa.
Hormone Changes: Changes in hormones due to pregnancy, menstruation, oral contraceptive use, or other hormonal condition such as hypothyroidism can cause nonallergic rhinitis.
Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger nonallergic rhinitis in some people.
