In this short article, we will answer the question “Why does my nose run when I eat?” and will share contextual information about this condition.
Do you experience nosebleeds after eating and worry that something is wrong with you? Nothing serious is occurring, so relax.
Why does my nose run when I eat?
Gustatory rhinitis is the medical term for this physiological condition. Gustatory rhinitis is nothing more than a sensory alteration that leads the mouth to salivate to start the digestive process while the nose produces a runny nose at the same time.
This disorder, which affects older people more frequently, is brought on by a neurological imbalance that confuses and overstimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in nasal blockage and a runny nose.
Many people are perplexed and believe they have developed allergic rhinitis. Because gustatory rhinitis only manifests around mealtimes and does not cause itching or nasal redness, it is simple to distinguish between these “itis” with a little observation.
As long as clinical research is conducted, doctors will not fully understand how to treat gustatory rhinitis. Antihistamines and topical corticosteroids in spray form are frequently used as indications.
Never start self-medication in an effort to relieve any discomfort; always look for a doctor who specialises in the area.
Thoughts of allergies are frequently made when discussing rhinitis, however, this is not usually how the issue manifests. Although it also affects the nose, the issue is brought on by several causes.
What is gustatory rhinitis?
While persons who are allergic to certain allergenic chemicals (such as dust, mould, animal hair, pollen, and cigarette smoke, among others), come into contact with them.
The result is triggering an inflammatory response that results in blockages and a runny nose, which can develop into allergic rhinitis. Food can cause gustatory rhinitis, which causes a runny nose and sneezing.
This particular type of rhinitis results from a sensory alteration that stimulates salivation at the same time that the nose produces secretion, a process that is triggered by the start of eating and chewing.
What factors lead to gustatory rhinitis?
A neurological imbalance is the root cause of this type of rhinitis. The sympathetic nervous system in our body increases the activity of the organs when it is necessary (for example, during times of stress or vigilance).
In this case, the parasympathetic nervous system “inhibits” this activity and maintains normal internal functioning.
For instance, the sympathetic system is in charge of the arteries’ contraction to improve breathing. These are some of the various behaviours that each system performs in the airways depending on the situation.
The parasympathetic system, on the other hand, is the reverse, therefore it results in nasal obstruction and also a runny nose.
The parasympathetic system’s functions can occasionally (and for unknown reasons) occur “out of time,” which results in the symptoms of rhinitis, one of which is rhinitis at the time of feeding.
This reaction could be triggered by any food. Any food can make your nose runny, but spicy or hot foods can result in more severe symptoms.
Which signs and symptoms accompany gustatory rhinitis?
While gustatory rhinitis manifests more subtly than allergic rhinitis, the former produces a reaction full of symptoms, including runny or itchy nose and eyes, sneezing, tears, and even breathing problems.
It essentially comes down to a runny nose (i.e., the release of a clear secretion that runs down the nose) and, on rare occasions, extremely subtle nasal blockages.
Depending on the individual, some may experience these symptoms more mildly while others may experience severe discomfort.
Extremely severe discomfort may even cause some patients to stop participating in group feedings. When food-related symptoms, like a runny nose, are present, the person withdraws from social interactions.
Even while the symptom is not as uncomfortable as, say, pain or fever, the psychological impact might be significant. The person is severely rattled psychologically and socially. Can you picture constantly sniffling while dining close to someone?
Conclusion:
In this short article, we have answered the question “Why does my nose run when I eat?” and also shared contextual information about this condition.