Runny Nose From Hot Soup? Understanding Gustatory Rhinitis [Health Fact Check]

Many Koreans enjoy hot soup dishes, but some experience a runny nose when consuming them, a condition known as gustatory rhinitis. This phenomenon can also occur when eating spicy food, causing discomfort in social situations.

“

Gustatory rhinitis is a condition where the sensory nerves in the nasal mucosa become hypersensitive, and the nasal blood vessels and glands react excessively to hot or spicy food stimuli, causing a runny nose.

Gustatory rhinitis is a form of non-allergic rhinitis, distinct from reactions to pollen or dust mites. Research indicates that around 40% of the population suffers from chronic rhinitis, and a significant portion of these cases are non-allergic. Gustatory rhinitis specifically impacts about 4% of those with non-allergic rhinitis.

The primary trigger is not necessarily the food's spiciness or temperature, but rather the intensity of the stimulus on nasal nerves. Dr. Kim Dong-hyuk, a professor at Korea University Ansan Hospital, explains that gustatory rhinitis occurs when sensory nerves in the nasal mucosa become hypersensitive. This leads to an excessive reaction in nasal blood vessels and glands, resulting in a runny nose. Even non-spicy hot foods can trigger symptoms, while cold or lukewarm foods with strong spices can also cause a runny nose.

“

The intensity of stimulation to the nasal nerves, rather than the spiciness or temperature of the food itself, can be more important.

The condition is linked to the overactivation of the parasympathetic nervous system. While this system normally regulates saliva production, in individuals with gustatory rhinitis, it excessively stimulates nasal glands as well. This simultaneous production of saliva and nasal mucus leads to a sudden, clear runny nose without congestion or sneezing.

“

As a result, when eating, saliva accumulates and the nasal glands also react excessively, causing a clear runny nose.

While gustatory rhinitis is more common between the ages of 20 and 60, it can become more prevalent with age, sometimes overlapping with age-related rhinitis. A key difference is that gustatory rhinitis symptoms cease after eating, whereas age-related rhinitis can cause a persistent runny nose. The most effective management involves identifying and avoiding triggers, often supplemented with medication. Anticholinergic nasal sprays are particularly effective in controlling nasal secretions and can be used preventatively about 30 minutes to an hour before meals. Avoiding extremely hot, spicy, or irritating foods and eating more slowly can also help. However, if a runny nose occurs only in one nostril, or is accompanied by blockage, especially after a past nasal injury or surgery, it is crucial to consult a doctor to rule out more serious conditions like tumors or cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

“

Using an anticholinergic spray about 30 minutes to 1 hour before a meal is currently the most effective preventive measure.