Health. Why do we get a runny nose after eating spicy food?

A chili pepper, wasabi, hot sauce… You've probably already experienced that sensation of a runny, stuffy nose after eating spicy food. This phenomenon is similar to rhinitis, but it's neither allergic nor infectious. Specialists refer to it as a vasomotor form.

This is essentially an overstimulation of the nerves in the nasal mucosa. This leads to excessive mucus production by the nasal glands immediately after eating the foods in question. Generally, these symptoms disappear quickly, as soon as the meal is finished.

An accused named capsaicin

The culprits behind this intense stimulation are clearly identified: chili peppers! More specifically, a substance that many of them—especially red ones—contain: capsaicin. In other words, the chemical compound responsible for both their spiciness and the intense heat they give off…

Targeted sensory nerves

This capsaicin tends to stimulate the sensory nerves of the airways, particularly those involved in reactions to allergens, irritants, and therefore inhaled physical stimuli. This can cause a transient and profuse runny nose, or even bring on a few tears.

Finally, it should be noted that, in addition to chili peppers, the consumption of a hot beverage (freshly ground coffee, tea, broth) can also cause similar symptoms.