FDA-Cleared · Minimally Invasive

Chronic Rhinitis Treatments: Quieting the Nerves Behind a Chronic Runny, Stuffy Nose

ClariFix is an FDA-cleared, in-office procedure that uses controlled cold to interrupt the nerve signals driving chronic rhinitis. About 30 minutes, local anesthesia, and no incisions.

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What ClariFix does — in plain language

If your nose runs, drips, and clogs no matter what medication you try, the problem may not be your sinuses or your allergies. It may be the nerve that's telling your nose to keep making mucus.

ClariFix is a small, handheld device made by Stryker that uses controlled cryotherapy — very cold temperatures — to interrupt the posterior nasal nerve, a branch of nerves that supplies the back of the nasal cavity and drives the reflex production of mucus and swelling. The procedure is called cryoablation: brief, targeted cold exposure creates a small, controlled lesion that reduces the overactive nerve signaling responsible for chronic rhinitis symptoms.

It is performed in our office. It takes about 30 minutes. You go home the same day. And for many patients with chronic runny nose, congestion, and post-nasal drip, it produces meaningful, durable improvement.

What condition is ClariFix designed for?

ClariFix is designed to treat chronic rhinitis — the persistent inflammation and hypersecretion of the nasal lining that produces symptoms like:
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Chronic runny nose (rhinorrhea).

Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness.

Post-nasal drip and chronic throat clearing.

Constant nose blowing that doesn't seem to solve anything.

Chronic rhinitis can be allergic (driven by allergen exposure) or non-allergic (alsocalled vasomotor rhinitis, driven by temperature changes, irritants, hormones, medications, or unknown triggers). ClariFix is FDA-cleared for both, though many patients who benefit most are those whose symptoms persist despite good allergy control or who have primarily non-allergic rhinitis.

What the evidence says

FDA cleared ClariFix for chronic rhinitis based on data showing meaningful, durable symptom reduction. Peer-reviewed follow-up studies have shown improvements in symptom scores that persisted at 12 months in a majority of treated patients, with a favorable safety profile.

As with any procedure, results vary. We are transparent about that at your consultation.

Who is a candidate?

Good candidates typically have:
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Chronic nasal symptoms for at least six months.

Symptoms that persist despite trials of intranasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, and — where appropriate — allergy testing and treatment.

Anatomy that allows safe access to the posterior nasal nerve area (assessed on nasal endoscopy).

A desire to avoid or reduce daily medication use.

Poor candidates include patients with:
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Untreated chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps (address the polyps first — see polypectomy).

Cold-related conditions such as cryoglobulinemia or Raynaud's phenomenon involving the head and neck.

Certain anatomic factors that prevent safe device placement.

We assess candidacy at your consultation.

How the procedure works

Step 1: Anesthesia

We apply topical decongestant and topical local anesthetic to numb the nasal lining. In most cases, local injection is added for full comfort.

Step 2: Endoscopic guidance

We use a small endoscope to visualize the treatment area on the backpart of the middle nasal cavity — the region where the posterior nasal nerve enters.

Step 3: The freeze

The ClariFix device is placed against the target area. A controlled cold cycle —approximately 30 seconds — creates a small, precise cryolesion. The process is repeated on the otherside.

Step 4: Go home.

The full appointment, including preparation and recovery, is usually about an hour. You drive yourself home in most cases.

There are no incisions, no stitches, and no packing

What to expect afterward

Most patients tolerate ClariFix well.
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Mild congestion, "pressure," or headache for a few days after the procedure is common.

Increased post-nasal drainage for one to two weeks as the treatment area heals.

A gradual improvement in symptoms over four to six weeks as the treated nerve remodels.

Most patients return to normal activities the same day or the next.

We ask you to:
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Rinse with saline daily for two weeks.

Avoid heavy lifting for a few days.

How ClariFix compares to RhinAer

Both ClariFix (Stryker, cryotherapy) and RhinAer (Aerin Medical, temperature-controlled radiofrequency) target the posterior nasal nerve to reduce chronic rhinitis symptoms. Both are in-office, minimally invasive, and FDA cleared for chronic rhinitis. The main differences are the energy modality —cold vs. controlled radiofrequency — and the specific device workflow.

At Exhale, we discuss both options with candidates and select based on anatomy, symptoms, andpatient preference. See our RhinAer page for details on that option.

Nasal Congestion and Rhinitis Assessment

Runny, sneezy, stuffy? Score your symptoms in under a minute.

The TNSS (Total Nasal Symptom Score) is a validated four-item scale that measures the core symptoms of rhinitis: runny nose, sneezing, congestion, and nasal itching. You'll rate each from 0 (none) to 3 (severe enough to interfere with sleep or daily activities), giving a total from 0 to 12. It's the standard tool used in allergy and rhinitis research, and it helps your physician tell allergic from non-allergic causes and track whether treatment is working.

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1 Min Assessment

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the results last?

Peer-reviewed data show meaningful symptom improvement lasting atleast 12 months in a majority of treated patients. Longer-term follow-up continues to be studied. Somepatients need re-treatment years later.

Does it hurt?

The procedure itself is generally well tolerated. Most patients describe a cold sensation and mild pressure during the freeze cycle. Local anesthetic is used to keep you comfortable.

Will I still need my allergy medications?

Many patients reduce their use of antihistamines and nasal sprays. Some are able to stop entirely. Results vary. If allergy is a significant driver, allergy immunotherapy may still be worth discussing.

Is ClariFix covered by insurance?

Many insurers cover ClariFix for appropriately selected patients.

How long is the appointment?

About one hour, including preparation and post-procedure monitoring. The freeze cycles themselves are brief.

Can I drive myself home?

Most patients drive themselves. We recommend arranging a ride if you tend to feel lightheaded during medical procedures.

Is there any risk of empty nose syndrome?

ClariFix does not remove tissue. It targets nerve signaling. It is not associated with the risk profile of aggressive turbinate surgery. Rare side effects include temporary numbness or altered sensation, which typically resolves.

Can I have ClariFix and other nasal procedures on the same day?

Sometimes. We often combine ClariFix with other in-office procedures such as VivAer or balloon sinuplasty. We would decide this at your consultation.

How soon will I feel a difference?

Some patients notice improvement within a few weeks. Full benefit typically develops by six to eight weeks.