Clogged and runny nose

A [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/) may bring sneezing, sore throat and a changing nasal discharge. [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) more often causes repeated sneezing, itching and watery discharge, especially after a trigger. House dust, pets and seasonal pollen can each contribute; related pages cover [House Dust Mite Allergy](/conditions/house-dust-mite-allergy/) and [Pet Allergy](/conditions/pet-allergy/). Facial pressure, reduced smell or symptoms that worsen after initial improvement can occur with [Sinusitis](/conditions/sinusitis/). Fever, marked aches, cough or exposure to infection may point towards [Influenza](/conditions/influenza/) or [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/), but symptoms overlap and do not confirm a diagnosis.

Drink fluids, rest and use saline drops or a saline rinse prepared with safe water if suitable for you. Wash hands, avoid smoke and reduce contact with a trigger when a pattern is clear. A pharmacist can explain whether an antihistamine or nasal treatment fits your age, pregnancy status, medicines and health conditions. Use decongestant sprays only as directed because prolonged use can worsen blockage. Do not start antibiotics simply because mucus is coloured; the cause may still be viral or allergic. Keep a note of triggers, duration and associated symptoms, including the details in [Runny Nose](/symptoms/runny-nose/).

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, swelling of the lips or face, confusion, severe headache with a stiff neck, or swelling around an eye. Arrange medical advice when symptoms are severe, persist without improvement, repeatedly disrupt sleep, or include one-sided blockage with bleeding or a foul smell. A clinician can examine the nose, throat and sinuses and decide whether testing or treatment is needed. Do not use symptom pattern alone to label the illness.

Ask whether the pattern fits infection, allergy, sinus inflammation or another cause, and whether you need an examination or test. Tell them when it began, whether symptoms follow dust, pets or seasons, what medicines you have tried, and whether you have asthma, pregnancy or another condition that changes treatment choices.