Cough and runny nose for 2 weeks

A common cold can leave the airways sensitive after other symptoms ease. Allergic rhinitis may cause clear drainage, sneezing, or itchy eyes, especially around dust or pets. Sinusitis becomes more relevant when facial pressure, blocked nasal passages, reduced smell, or thick discharge accompanies the cough. COVID-19 and influenza can also cause respiratory symptoms, and symptoms alone cannot reliably distinguish them.

Notice whether the cough is dry or produces mucus, whether the nose runs clear or becomes coloured, and whether symptoms change at home, outdoors, or around animals. These patterns help a clinician assess the cause without assuming that one symptom identifies a particular condition.

Drink fluids, rest, and avoid smoke, vaping, and other airway irritants. Saline nasal rinses or spray may ease nasal irritation when used with clean water and according to the product instructions. Wash hands and consider limiting close contact while an infectious cause remains possible. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether a suitable treatment for congestion, allergy, or cough fits your health history.

Arrange a medical review if symptoms are not improving, keep returning, or interfere with sleep or normal activity. Seek urgent help for difficult breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion, coughing blood, dehydration, or a sudden marked deterioration. People with significant lung disease, reduced immunity, or other serious health conditions should seek advice sooner.

Ask whether the pattern fits a lingering infection, allergy, sinusitis, or another cause; whether testing is useful; and which treatments are safe with your regular medicines. Mention symptom onset, exposures, fever, breathlessness, mucus, and any medical conditions.