Continuous runny nose: causes and next steps

Allergic Rhinitis may cause clear discharge, sneezing, itching, or watery eyes, sometimes after exposure to pollen, House Dust Mite Allergy, or a Pet Allergy. A Common Cold, Influenza, or COVID-19 can bring a runny nose with sore throat, cough, tiredness, fever, or body aches. Sinusitis may add facial pressure, blocked breathing, or thicker mucus. Smoke, perfume, dry air, and some medicines can irritate the nasal lining without an infection.

Drink fluids, use saline spray or rinses as directed, and avoid smoke and known triggers. Wash hands and consider reducing close contact when infection symptoms are present. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Allergy Medication is suitable; decongestant sprays should not be used longer than the product instructions because overuse can worsen blockage. Note the colour of discharge, triggers, fever, and how symptoms affect sleep.

Arrange medical advice if discharge continues without improvement, keeps returning, or is accompanied by facial pain, reduced smell, fever, wheezing, or breathing difficulty. Seek urgent help for swelling around an eye, severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, or trouble breathing. A sudden one-sided watery leak after a head injury also needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether the pattern suggests Allergic Rhinitis, infection, or Sinusitis, whether testing is useful, and which treatment is safe with your other medicines. Tell the clinician about pets, dust exposure, travel, fever, and any nasal sprays already tried.