A runny nose, medically known as rhinorrhea, is a common ailment that everyone experiences occasionally. It occurs when excess mucus drains from the nose. This discharge can be clear, but also may be white, yellow or green. Understanding why you have a runny nose is the first step to finding effective relief. This article, based on insights from Cedars-Sinai hospitalist Dr. Nicole J. Van Groningen, will explore the common causes of a runny nose and provide practical strategies to stop it.
What Causes a Runny Nose?
Runny noses are often triggered by irritants that inflame the nasal passages. According to Dr. Van Groningen, these irritants can broadly be categorized as allergens or viruses. When your nose becomes irritated, it reacts by becoming inflamed and producing extra mucus. This is the body’s natural defense mechanism to flush out harmful invaders, whether it’s a virus causing a respiratory infection or substances triggering an allergic reaction.
Runny Nose Due to Allergies
Allergies are a frequent culprit behind persistent runny noses. If your runny nose is allergy-related, you might also notice other symptoms such as sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, and a scratchy throat. These allergic reactions can be prompted by outdoor allergens like ragweed during pollen season, or indoor allergens such as fragrances, dust mites, or pet dander, as Dr. Van Groningen explained to Self.
Over-the-Counter Medications to Stop Runny Nose
Fortunately, for many cases of runny nose, relief is available right at your local drugstore. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be quite effective in managing and stopping a runny nose. The type of medication you choose often depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Antihistamines for Allergy-Related Runny Nose
For runny noses caused by allergies, antihistamines are a go-to solution. These medications work by counteracting the effects of histamine, a chemical released by your body during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines help to reduce the allergic response, which in turn dries up excess mucus production and alleviates symptoms like sneezing and itching.
Decongestants for Runny Nose from Colds or Infections
When a runny nose is due to a respiratory infection, such as the common cold, decongestants can provide relief. Decongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nasal passages. This constriction reduces swelling and the amount of mucus released, helping you breathe more easily.
However, it’s important to use decongestants as directed and be mindful of when you take them. Dr. Van Groningen advises taking decongestants well before bedtime because they can interfere with sleep. “Nasal decongestants can actually kind of hype you up like caffeine because they promote the sympathetic nervous system, potentially causing insomnia and agitation,” she cautioned in Self.
Saline Treatments and Nasal Rinses
For a gentler approach to managing a runny nose, saline treatments or nasal rinses can be helpful. These methods involve flushing the nasal passages with a saline solution. While saline treatments may not completely stop a runny nose, they can help to clear mucus, relieve congestion, and soothe irritated nasal tissues. Dr. Van Groningen notes that these are low-risk alternatives that can provide some comfort.
When to Consult a Doctor for a Runny Nose
While most runny noses resolve on their own or with OTC treatments, there are situations when it’s important to seek medical advice. Dr. Van Groningen recommends consulting a doctor if your nasal symptoms persist for longer than 10 days, or if over-the-counter medications fail to provide relief.
Another crucial point to consider is the use of decongestants. “If you use decongestants longer than three to five days or more frequently than recommended, you can get a ‘rebound’ runny nose,” Dr. Van Groningen warns. This rebound effect can cause your symptoms to return and even worsen once you stop treatment, creating a cycle of dependency.
In conclusion, understanding the cause of your runny nose is key to choosing the right treatment. Whether it’s allergies, a cold, or another irritant, various remedies are available. However, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant a visit to a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and care.
