Rhinitis is a condition that can be triggered by food, and it is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. In some cases, rhinitis can be caused by an allergic reaction to certain foods.
Food Allergies and Rhinitis
Food allergies can trigger rhinitis, leading to symptoms including nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. An allergic reaction occurs when the body's immune system responds to a particular food allergen, such as a specific kind of protein, by releasing chemicals that cause inflammation in the nose and other areas of the body. Common food allergens that can trigger rhinitis include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, and soy.
Food Intolerance and Rhinitis
In some cases, rhinitis can be caused by a food intolerance, rather than an allergy. A food intolerance occurs when the body is unable to digest or absorb a particular food or component of a food. Common food intolerances that can lead to rhinitis include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and fructose intolerance. Symptoms can include nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Food-Related Rhinitis
If you suspect that your rhinitis is triggered by food, it is important to seek medical advice. Your doctor may recommend that you eliminate certain foods from your diet to determine whether they are the cause of your symptoms. If this does not improve your symptoms, your doctor may order an allergy test or an elimination diet to identify the allergen.
Treatment for food-related rhinitis may include medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. In addition, your doctor may recommend avoiding the food allergen to prevent future symptoms. In some cases, immunotherapy may be recommended to reduce the severity of symptoms.