Risk factors

Factors that can increase your risk of nonallergic rhinitis include:

• Exposure to irritants. If you're exposed to irritants such as smog, exhaust fumes or tobacco smoke, you may be at increased risk of developing nonallergic rhinitis.
• Being older than age 20. Unlike allergic rhinitis, which usually occurs before age 20, nonallergic rhinitis occurs after age 20 in most people.
• Prolonged use of decongestant nasal drops or sprays. Using over-the-counter decongestant nasal drops or sprays (Afrin, Dristan, others) for more than a few days can actually cause more-severe nasal congestion when the decongestant wears off, often called rebound congestion.
• Being female. Due to hormonal changes, nasal congestion often gets worse during menstruation and pregnancy.
• Occupational exposure to fumes. In some cases, nonallergic rhinitis is triggered by exposure to an airborne irritant in the workplace (occupational rhinitis). Some common triggers include construction materials, solvents, or other chemicals and fumes from decomposing organic material such as compost.
• Certain health problems. Several chronic health conditions can cause or worsen nonallergic rhinitis, such as hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue syndrome and diabetes.