Health: Non-allergic Rhinitis
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Cold and allergy season has arrived, but you might be surprised to learn a constant runny nose could be caused by something else. Medical Reporter Stephanie Stahl explains why it's nothing to sneeze at.
A box of tissues used to be a constant companion for Rosalin Siv.
"My nose was constantly running. It was super itchy. I was pretty convinced that I had regular allergies," said Rosalin.
But she didn't. Rosalin was blown away when she was diagnosed with something called non-allergic rhinitis. Symptoms are similar to nasal allergies including a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and post nasal drip. But when patients are tested for allergies, the results come back negative.
"Recent studies showed that about 17 million Americans live with non-allergic rhinitis, so this is a condition that is gaining a lot of attention," said Dr. Cascya Charlot with the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
While the condition can affect anyone, doctors say it seems to be more common among women.
Allergy Specialist Dr. Jonathan Bernstein also said, "We found in a clinical study that patients with non-allergic rhinitis typically present later in life. They typically have no family history of allergies."
The cause of non-allergic rhinitis is unknown. Doctors say it can lead to a variety of problems like headaches, insomnia, or lack of concentration.
"The other concern with non-allergic rhinitis is its association with complications such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps and recurring ear infections," said Dr. Charlot.
It can be triggered by things like spicy food, medications, even hair spray.
In addition to avoiding triggers, over-the-counter and prescription options are available, including decongestants and nasal sprays.
Rosalin found relief with a prescription nasal spray.
"I feel informed and now I can just better monitor my lifestyle," said Rosalin.
Doctors say antihistamines, like Benadryl, Claritin or Zyrtec, are not as effective for treating non-allergic rhinitis.
