Definition and symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucosal lining of the nose. Rhinitis presenting without an identifiable allergic trigger or infective cause is referred to as nonallergic rhinitis (also called vasomotor rhinitis).

The most common symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis are sneezing, rhinorrhoea, upper airway cough syndrome (postnasal drip) and nasal congestion. Nonallergic rhinitis is not usually associated with itchy skin or watery eyes. Symptoms commonly occur throughout the year, although they may be exacerbated by weather conditions (eg fluctuations in temperature) and physical irritants (eg dust, smoke).

Allergy testing is not necessary to confirm a diagnosis of nonallergic rhinitis. Diagnosis is based on physical examination, patient history and the presence of symptoms in the absence of allergens.