15 W. Dry Creek Circle 6169 S. Balsam Way; Suite 290
Littleton, CO 80120-4427 Littleton, Colorado 80123
Phone: (303) 798-1309 Fax: (303) 798-2319
Ear, Nose & Throat Center
Specialists of the Ear, Nose and Throat / Head and Neck Surgery / Facial Plastic Surgery
Evaluation of Dizziness & Vestibular Disorders
For more information see us at our web site ! http://www.ENT Center.Net
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Vasomotor Rhinitis: ( Non-Allergic Rhinitis ) |
Vasomotor rhinitis is a condition in which the nose is overly reactive and overly sensitive to the environment. While this condition masquerades as an allergy, it is not. In fact, it is only diagnosed after allergy has been thoroughly ruled out as a cause.
The name describes the condition: rhinitis is inflammation of the nose; vasomotor indicates that the normal nerve reflex ("motor") and hormone regulation of the blood vessels ("vas") of the nose is imperfect. Symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis are overreactions by the nose to many common things in the environment. More mucus, more clear fluid, more congestion and nasal blockage result. Sometimes these symptoms are accompanied by mild nasal and eye irritation or itching as well.
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Vasomotor rhinitis is very common and occurs in children as well as adults. A major function of the nose is to provide warmth, moisture and filtration to the air we breathe and, thus, protect the lungs. This is accomplished through the mucous membrane linings in the nose which expand to deliver more heat and moisture when the air is cold and dry, but contract to deliver less when the air is sufficiently warm and moist. |
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COMMON IRRITANTS: |
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The nose normally adjusts to many variations in the environment. For people with vasomotor rhinitis, some of these environmental conditions trigger their symptoms. These irritants may include all or some of the following: |
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extremes in temperature - very hot or cold air |
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extremes in humidity - very dry or moist air |
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strong odors |
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particulate irritants - pollution or smoke |
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hot, cold or spicy food |
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food or drink which affects blood vessels, e.g. alcoholic beverages body position - |
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lying down commonly produces blockage |
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emotional factors to some extent |
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ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS: |
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In many instances, the nasal congestion causes pressure in the head, especially in the areas surrounding the nose and eyes, and even headaches. It is not unusual to find an association with cold extremities and occasionally vascular ("migraine") headaches. |
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MANAGEMENT: |
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Vasomotor rhinitis can be extremely annoying and difficult to live with, although it has no serious complications. Treatment consists of: |
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avoiding and minimizing factors which contribute to symptoms |
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using appropriate medications |
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adding moisture to the nasal passages if dry air appears to contribute to symptoms, e.g. saline irrigations or a humidifier |
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Your doctor and you will need to find out together which irritants should be avoided (perhaps excessively cold temperature at night) and which medications or combination of medications works best to control your symptoms. |
What is otolaryngology-head and neck surgery ?
Otolaryngology-Head and neck surgery is a specialty concerned with the medical and surgical treatment of the ears, nose, throat and related structures of the head and neck. The specialty encompasses cosmetic facial reconstruction, surgery of benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck, management of patients with loss of hearing and balance, endoscopic examination of air and food passages, and treatment of allergic, sinus, laryngeal, thyroid and esophageal disorders. To qualify for the American Board of Otolaryngology certification examination, a physician must complete five or more years of post-M.D. specialty training.
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