Patients who have extensive drainage without actually having a cold or being diagnosed with a respiratory system issue such as a cold or sinusitis may be dealing with a condition known as vasomotor rhinitis. At the Daneshrad Clinic, we routinely see patients with chronic nasal concerns who are looking for relief. Many of these patients are diagnosed with a condition called vasomotor rhinitis, sometimes referred to as VMS.
What is vasomotor rhinitis?
Dr. Payam Daneshrad is a board-certified orolaryngologist in the Torrance and Santa Monica, CA area who describes vasomotor rhinitis as a condition in which the blood vessels in the nose dilate or swell due to various triggers, resulting in nasal congestion. Common triggers of vasomotor rhinitis include:
- Temperature changes (either hot or cold)
- Humidity
- Spicy foods
- Strong odors
- Cigarette smoke
- Dry air
Many of these triggers are also common cold triggers, which is why vasomotor rhinitis is often confused with a cold or allergy. However, unlike a cold or allergy, vasomotor rhinitis does not usually involve mucus production or an immune response.
What are the symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis?
The most common symptom of vasomotor rhinitis is nasal congestion. Other symptoms may include:
- runny nose (watery drainage)
- post-nasal drip
- sinus pressure
- headache
- cough
- sore throat
- sneezing
These symptoms can be mild to severe, and they may come and go or be constant.
What are the treatments for vasomotor rhinitis?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for vasomotor rhinitis. However, there are many treatments that can help to lessen the symptoms and make the condition more manageable. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Nasal saline sprays
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
- Avoiding triggers
- Humidifiers
- Breathing exercises
At the Daneshrad Clinic, we individualize treatment plans for each of our patients based on their unique symptoms, triggers, and overall health. We work with our patients to find the best possible combination of treatments to help them find relief.
Call today to learn more about vasomotor rhinitis
If you suffer from chronic nasal congestion or other vasomotor rhinitis symptoms, we invite you to make an appointment at the Daneshrad Clinic. Dr. Payam Daneshrad is a leading specialist in the Torrance and Santa Monica, CA areas who has extensive experience treating vasomotor rhinitis and can help you find the relief you need.