What should you know about continuous cold and runny nose?

A runny nose occurs when the nasal lining produces extra fluid. A common cold can cause clear or thicker discharge with sneezing, sore throat and cough. Allergic rhinitis often brings itching, repeated sneezing and watery eyes; house dust mite or pet allergy can cause symptoms that return around a particular exposure. Influenza and COVID-19 may cause a runny nose alongside fever, cough, marked tiredness or body aches. Sinusitis may add facial pressure, reduced smell or thick mucus. The combination and timing help distinguish these patterns.

Record when discharge starts, its texture, triggers, fever, facial pressure, smell changes and contact with people who are unwell. Rest, drink fluids and use saline drops or rinsing as directed. Wash hands and avoid sharing towels when infection is possible. Reduce exposure to smoke, strong scents, dust and known allergens. A pharmacist or clinician can advise about allergy medication and whether an examination is needed. Do not use antibiotics unless prescribed for a diagnosed bacterial problem.

Book an appointment if the runny nose continues beyond an expected short illness, repeatedly returns, is one-sided, contains blood, affects sleep or comes with reduced smell and facial pain. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, swelling around an eye, severe headache with fever, confusion, dehydration or rapidly worsening symptoms. Fever and significant body aches may require assessment for influenza or COVID-19, especially after a relevant exposure.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergy, infection or sinusitis, whether testing is useful, how to reduce likely triggers, and which symptoms should prompt urgent reassessment.