Why Spicy Foods Give You a Runny Nose—and How to Stop It
Why Spicy Foods Give You a Runny Nose—and How to Stop It
Why Spicy Foods Give You a Runny Nose—and How to Stop It
A runny nose triggered by eating certain foods is called gustatory rhinitis. This condition is a form of nonallergic rhinitis, separate from reactions caused by pollen, dust, or mould. It often affects adults over the age of 50. Gustatory rhinitis occurs when specific foods stimulate the trigeminal nerve. Spicy dishes, hot peppers, garlic, curry, salsa, hot sauce, chilli powder, and ginger are frequent triggers. Symptoms typically include a runny nose, congestion, clear discharge, and postnasal drip.
Food allergies can also produce nasal symptoms, with peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, gluten, and eggs among the common allergens. Treatment options for gustatory rhinitis include ipratropium bromide nasal sprays, decongestants, steroid sprays, and saline flushes. For cases where medication proves ineffective, new in-office procedures have been developed to address the issue. Seeking treatment for gustatory rhinitis can bring relief from persistent symptoms. Improved management of the condition may enhance daily life for those affected. Various therapies and procedures are now available to tackle the problem.