A runny nose is a common symptom when the nasal passages produce excess mucus. Colds, flu, allergies, or other irritants can cause it. The runny nose is also called rhinorrhea. It can accompany other symptoms, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and sinus pressure.
| Causes | Rhinits medicamentosa, Vasomotor Rhinits, Nonallergic rhinits |
|---|---|
| Remedies | Limit overusing of voice, limiting exposure to irritants, using of humidifier |
| Preventive Options | Avoid alcohol, smoking, Eat healthy diet |
| Treatment Options | Treat Rhinits, Antihistamine, Nasal Steroid Spray |
| Specialist | ENT Specialist |
A runny nose is when your nose makes more snot, or boogers, than usual, and it drips out of your nose. It can happen when you have a cold, the flu, or an allergy. When your nose gets runny, it can be itchy and uncomfortable, and sometimes it can even make your throat feel yucky. But it's not always bad! A runny nose helps your body eliminate germs and makes you feel better. Sometimes, you need a tissue to wipe your nose, and you'll be good as new! You can also take medicine to help with a runny nose, but it's important to ask a grown-up first.
The runny nose can result into yellow, or green in color. Other symptoms of a runny nose can include:
Several types of runny nose are based on the underlying causes given in the following.
It is a term that refers to inflammation of the nasal passages. A viral or bacterial infection, allergies, or exposure to irritants such as pollution or smoke can cause it.
Also known as hay fever, an allergic reaction to things such as pollen, dust, or pet dander causes a runny nose.
This type of runny nose is caused by changes in the blood vessels in the nose, and it can be caused by factors such as weather changes, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
Allergic rhinitis or reaction does not cause this type of runny nose, but it can be caused by factors such as infection, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
A viral or bacterial infection, such as the common cold, flu, or sinusitis, cause this type of runny nose.
Several medical conditions can cause a runny nose. Some examples include the following.
These viral infections are common causes of a runny nose, often accompanied by other symptoms such as sneezing, cough, and sore throat.
Allergic rhinitis is known as hay fever. It is a common cause of a runny nose. It is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander.
Inflammation of the sinuses (air-filled spaces in the bones around the nose) can cause a runny nose and other symptoms such as congestion, facial pressure, and headache.
A runny nose caused by overuse of over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays.
A runny nose is caused by changes in the blood vessels in the nose. As a result, it can be caused by factors such as weather changes, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
An allergic reaction does not cause a runny nose but can be caused by factors such as infection, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
A runny nose, also known as rhinorrhea, can have a variety of causes. Some of the most common causes include the following.
These viral infections can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, producing excess mucus and a runny nose.
Allergic rhinitis causes a runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Many people react adversely to allergens such as pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander.
Sinusitis is specifically inflammation of the sinuses. This may cause a runny nose. Additionally, you will notice facial pain and pressure.
Exposure to irritants such as smoke, pollution, or strong odors can cause a runny nose.
The hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation can cause a runny nose.
This is a condition where the cause of a runny nose is not due to an allergy but other factors such as changes in weather, temperature or humidity, spicy foods, alcohol, and certain medications.
Some medical conditions, such as vasomotor rhinitis, an abnormal sensitivity of blood vessels in the nose, or certain types of tumors, can cause a runny nose.
Diagnosis of a runny nose typically begins with a physical examination and a review of the symptoms of the patient's and medical history. Depending on the suspected cause of the runny nose, the healthcare professional may also order specific tests mentioned down below.
Allergy testing
This may include a skin prick test or a blood test to determine if the patient is allergic to specific allergens.
A sample of nasal discharge may be collected and analyzed in a laboratory to identify the presence of a viral or bacterial infection.
A CT scan may be ordered to examine the sinuses in more detail, particularly if a sinus infection is suspected.
A blood test may be ordered to check for underlying medical conditions causing the runny nose.
Several medications can be used to treat a runny nose, depending on the underlying cause. Some common medications include the following.
These medications, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, can help reduce nasal congestion and decrease the mucus produced by the nasal passages.
These medications, such as avil, cetirizine, loratadine, and diphenhydramine, can help reduce allergic rhinitides, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
These medications, such as fluticasone, mometasone, and triamcinolone, can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and improve allergic and non-allergic rhinitis symptoms.
These medications, such as guaifenesin, help thin and loosen mucus. This makes it easier to clear from the nasal passages.
These medications, such as montelukast and zafirlukast, can help reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms by blocking the production of leukotrienes, chemicals that contribute to inflammation in the nasal passages.
A bacterial infection or antibiotics such as amoxicillin, azithromycin, or cefuroxime could cause a runny nose. It is mainly prescribed to reduce the infection.
Surgery can be an option for certain conditions that cause a runny nose. Some examples of conditions that may be treated with surgery include the following.
These non-cancerous growths in the nasal passages can cause a runny nose, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing. Surgery to remove the polyps, known as polypectomy, can help to improve these symptoms.
A deviated septum, where the bone and cartilage that separates the nasal passages are not straight, can cause a runny nose and nasal congestion. Correcting the deviated septum, known as septoplasty, can help improve these symptoms.
Chronic sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for at least 12 weeks, can cause a runny nose, facial pain, and pressure. Opening the blocked sinus passages, known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), can help improve these symptoms.
Non-allergic rhinitis can be caused by a structural problem in the nose, such as a large inferior turbinate or a nasal valve collapse. Surgery in such cases can correct the underlying structural problem.
Several home remedies can help relieve a runny nose's symptoms. Some examples include the following.
You can use a saline solution to flush out the nasal passages can help to reduce congestion and clear mucus. This can be done using a saline nasal spray or a neti pot to pour the solution into the nostrils.
Breathing in the steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can help to loosen mucus and reduce congestion.
The humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help to soothe dry nasal passages and reduce congestion.
Applying a warm compress to the face or a warm shower can help open up the nasal passages and reduce congestion, while a cold compress can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Some over-the-counter medications, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, can help to reduce nasal congestion and decrease the amount of mucus produced by the nasal passages.
Drinking plenty of water and other fluids helps to thin mucus. It helps to clear the mucus from the nasal passages.
Getting plenty of rest can help to boost the immune system and promote healing.
Treatment for a runny nose caused by a cold or flu typically includes rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and decongestants. Drinking fluids and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can also help to relieve symptoms.
Treatment for a runny nose caused by allergies typically includes antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays to relieve symptoms. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) may also be recommended for long-term relief.
Treatment for a runny nose caused by sinusitis typically includes antibiotics for bacterial infections, decongestants, and nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation.
Treatment for a runny nose caused by overuse of nasal decongestant sprays typically includes discontinuing the spray and using saline nasal sprays to help clear the nasal passages.
Treatment for a runny nose caused by changes in the blood vessels in the nose typically includes antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation.
Preventive measures for a sore throat include the following. It is essential to use preventive methods.
You should see a doctor if you have a sore throat that lasts longer than a week, or if you have other symptoms such as:
If you have runny nose and are concerned about your health, it is important to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified runny nose doctor. A doctor specializing in treating runny nose, such as a ENT Specialist, would be the right health professional to consult.
Here is a list of Top verified doctors for runny nose. You can book an appointment with one to start your runny nose treatment today.
Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, Kolkata
Rs. 1,000 Consult Fees
SRCC Children Hospital, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai
Rs. 1,500 Consult Fees
Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi NCR
Rs. 800 Consult Fees
A hospital can provide various services to help diagnose and treat your runny nose. If you are experiencing runny nose In that case, it is important to visit a runny nose hospital for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Check a list of Top Hospitals for runny nose treatment.
Multi Speciality Hospital
Established in 1918
🛌345 Beds
5+ Doctors 
Super Speciality Hospital
Established in 1950
🛌350 Beds
5+ Doctors 
Multi Speciality Hospital
Established in 1962
🛌1000 Beds
5+ Doctors Frequently asked questions and answers about runny nose.
How can I relieve the pain of a sore throat?
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve the pain of a sore throat.
How do I stop a runny nose?
You can stop a runny nose by using over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants, trying home remedies like saline nasal rinses or steam inhalation, or staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Is a sore throat contagious?
A sore throat caused by a viral infection is typically contagious, while a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection is not.
What causes watery runny nose?
A watery runny nose is usually caused by inflammation of the nasal passages, which can be triggered by allergies, viral infections like the common cold, or environmental irritants like smoke or pollution.
Can a sore throat lead to serious complications?
In most cases, a sore throat is not serious and will resolve on its own. However, in rare cases, a sore throat can lead to complications such as pneumonia, rheumatic fever, or sepsis.
What is the best medicine for a runny nose?
The best medicine for a runny nose depends on the underlying cause of the symptom. Antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine can be effective for allergies, while decongestants like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine can help relieve congestion caused by colds or flu. Nasal corticosteroid sprays like fluticasone or budesonide can be helpful for inflammation caused by allergies or sinusitis. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
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Manipal Hospital
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CARE Hospital
Dr. has been a wonderful experience for me. He is a cheerful, lively, and upbeat individual. He provides us with actual, actionable, and concrete solutions to our situation. I am quite comfortable discussing any topic connected to life with you. Both mam and sir are the most nicest people I've ever encountered. I am completely satisfied.
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Manipal Hospital
My time with Dr. has been excellent. He is a cheerful, lively, and upbeat individual. He provides us with actual, actionable, and concrete solutions to our situation. I am quite comfortable discussing any topic connected to life with you. Both mam and sir are the most nicest people I've ever encountered. I am completely satisfied.
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