It’s All In Your Head: Why is my nose dripping like a leaky faucet?

You may have what is known as “vasomotor rhinitis” if you usually have a tissue on hand because your nose seems to start dripping as you eat, when you lean over to pick something up, or if there is a steady flow down your throat. Vasomotor rhinitis is also known as non-allergic rhinitis, as it is not caused by a change in pollen counts, dust mites, or animal dander. It is caused by certain triggers that lead to an overstimulation of the nerves in the nose. When the nerves become overstimulated, patients will commonly experience persistently runny nose and often postnasal drip, nasal congestion, coughing, itching, and sneezing.

It can be confusing because these are also many symptoms of allergies as well. But unlike allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis typically occurs no matter the season. Some of the most common triggers for vasomotor rhinitis are environmental changes (such as changes in temperature, perfumes, smoke, foods), medications (nasal decongestants, ED medications, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen), and hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause.

At the ENT clinic, we review the patient’s history as well as a thorough physical examination often including nasal endoscopy to help determine the cause of the symptoms. Allergy testing may be recommended to help differentiate between allergic rhinitis and vasomotor rhinitis. In some cases, a sinus CT scan may be recommended.

Vasomotor rhinitis is treated by trying to identify the potential trigger(s). If it is medication induced, then discontinuation or change of the medication might be advised. A trial of an anticholinergic nasal spray (ipratropium bromide) may be suggested to help alleviate the symptoms. There are procedures such as Clarifix and RhinAer that can be easily performed in the office with minimal discomfort and no incisions.

Visit www.centraltexasinusandallergy.com to ask our specialists if you have vasomotor rhinitis and what you can do about it.