Blocked and runny nose: what should you know?

A Common Cold may cause congestion, watery or thicker mucus, sore throat and cough. Allergic Rhinitis often causes repeated sneezing, itchy eyes and clear discharge after exposure to pollen, dust or animals; House Dust Mite Allergy and Pet Allergy are examples of triggers. Influenza and COVID-19 can include nasal symptoms alongside fever, aches, cough or tiredness. Sinusitis may cause facial pressure, reduced smell and discoloured mucus, especially when symptoms persist or worsen after initial improvement.

Rest, drink fluids and use saline spray or a carefully prepared saline rinse to loosen mucus. Wash hands, avoid smoke and ventilate rooms. If symptoms follow a clear allergen, reduce exposure and ask a pharmacist about suitable treatment. Do not share towels or utensils while an infection is possible. Check current local advice if COVID-19 or Influenza is suspected, particularly before visiting people at higher risk. Follow medicine labels and ask about interactions if you take regular treatment.

Arrange medical advice when symptoms are persistent, recurrent, severe or mainly one-sided, or when facial pain, reduced smell or fever develops. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, swelling around the eyes, confusion, dehydration, severe headache, stiff neck or a rapidly worsening illness. A clinician can assess whether infection, allergy or another cause needs targeted treatment.

Does my symptom pattern fit allergy, a cold, Influenza, COVID-19 or Sinusitis? Should I test for an infection? Which nasal treatments are suitable? What duration or change should prompt review?