Bronchitis and runny nose: what to know

Bronchitis causes swelling and mucus in the larger breathing tubes, commonly after a respiratory infection. The same infection may irritate the nose and throat, causing clear or thicker discharge, cough and fatigue. A runny nose is also a common presentation of the common cold, influenza or COVID-19, while allergic rhinitis, pet allergy and house dust mite allergy can cause repeated sneezing, itchy eyes and watery discharge without an infection. Sinusitis becomes more relevant when facial pressure, blocked nasal passages or worsening coloured mucus accompany the illness. Nasal symptoms alone cannot identify the cause.

Rest, drink fluids and avoid cigarette smoke, vaping and strong fragrances. Saline nasal spray or drops may loosen mucus; gentle nose blowing can reduce pressure. A humidified room may feel soothing, but avoid very hot steam that could burn you. Ask a pharmacist whether a suitable pain reliever or allergy treatment fits your health conditions and other medicines. Antibiotics do not treat viral bronchitis, so do not start leftover antibiotics. Wash hands and cover coughs, especially around people at higher risk of respiratory infection.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, chest pain or coughing blood. Arrange medical assessment if breathing becomes harder, fever is persistent or the cough is not settling, particularly if you have asthma, COPD, are pregnant, or have a weakened immune system. A clinician may listen to your chest and decide whether testing is needed.

Could the nasal symptoms be allergy-related rather than part of the infection? Do my chest symptoms suggest asthma or another breathing problem? Which medicines are safe with my existing conditions? What changes should prompt urgent review?