Vasomotor rhinitis (often called non-allergic rhinitis) can cause a blocked or runny nose, sneezing and nasal irritation without a clear allergy trigger. Flare-ups are often linked to temperature changes, strong smells (perfume/cleaning products), smoke or pollution, alcohol, spicy foods, or dry heated indoor air. Because symptoms vary from person to person, it usually helps to choose an option based on what’s bothering you most — congestion, a runny nose, or frequent sneezing and irritation.
Here you can browse pharmacy products commonly used to help manage rhinitis symptoms, including nasal sprays, antihistamines and short-term decongestant formats. withaid is a UK based and regulated pharmacy. Always read the label and patient information leaflet, and check suitability if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, buying for a child, have high blood pressure/heart conditions, or take other medicines. If symptoms are persistent, worsening, one-sided, or you have facial pain, fever, nosebleeds or breathing difficulty, seek advice from a pharmacist, GP or NHS 111.
Shop by vasomotor rhinitis type
Popular types of vasomotor rhinitis relief
- Saline nasal sprays / rinses (drug-free cleansing and moisture for dry, dusty or smoky environments)
- Steroid nasal sprays (often chosen for ongoing congestion; follow leaflet directions)
- Antihistamine tablets or liquids (commonly used for sneezing/itching or mixed symptoms; check drowsiness warnings)
- Short-course decongestants (for a very blocked nose; not intended for prolonged use)
- Supportive measures (trigger reduction and gentle nasal hygiene alongside a suitable product format)
How to choose the right option
- Match the format to your main symptom: congestion often suits a nasal spray approach; sneezing/itching may suit an antihistamine (product-dependent).
- Check suitability before you buy: some decongestants may not be suitable if you have high blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid problems, glaucoma, prostate issues, or take certain medicines.
- Avoid rebound congestion: decongestant nasal sprays are usually for short-term use only; follow the pack maximum duration carefully.
- Choose a routine you can follow: compare once-daily vs multiple-dose options, and consider “drowsy” vs “less drowsy” warnings where relevant.
- Reduce triggers where possible: strong fragrances, smoke/pollution and sudden temperature shifts can worsen symptoms; improving room humidity and gentle cleansing may help some people.
- Know when to get help: seek advice if symptoms last weeks, keep returning, are severe or one-sided, or come with facial pain, fever, nosebleeds or breathing difficulty.
Quick links: common needs
FAQs
What is vasomotor rhinitis?
Vasomotor rhinitis is a type of non-allergic rhinitis where the nasal lining becomes sensitive and reacts to triggers such as temperature changes, strong smells, smoke or pollution. Symptoms can include congestion, a runny nose, sneezing and nasal irritation.
How is vasomotor rhinitis different from hay fever?
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is triggered by allergens like pollen and may be seasonal. Vasomotor rhinitis is not driven by allergens and is more often linked to irritants or environmental changes. If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, a pharmacist or GP can advise.
What are common triggers for flare-ups?
Triggers can include cold air, heated or dry indoor air, strong fragrances, smoke, pollution, alcohol and spicy foods. Noting when symptoms worsen can help you spot patterns and reduce exposure where possible.
Which options are commonly used to help manage symptoms?
Many people choose a nasal spray format for congestion or a runny nose and may consider an oral antihistamine if sneezing, itching or broader symptoms are also present. The best choice depends on the product type, your symptoms and suitability.
How long should I try a nasal spray before seeking advice?
Some products are intended for short-term relief, while others are used more regularly. Check the label and leaflet for expected timeframes and maximum duration. If you’re not improving, or you need frequent decongestant use, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
Can I use a decongestant nasal spray every day?
Decongestant sprays are usually intended for short-term use only. Using them longer than the pack instructions can lead to rebound congestion (a worsening blocked nose). If you feel you need a decongestant most days, ask a pharmacist or GP about safer long-term approaches.
What if I’m pregnant, breastfeeding, or buying for a child?
Suitability varies by ingredient, strength and age group. Always check the label and patient information leaflet, and speak to a pharmacist or GP before using medicines in pregnancy or breastfeeding, or when choosing treatments for children.
Important: This information is general guidance and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always read the label and patient information leaflet and use medicines only as directed. If you’re unsure what’s suitable, speak to a pharmacist. For severe or persistent symptoms, or any red-flag symptoms, contact your GP or NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.
