Does sinusitis cause runny nose?

Sinus inflammation can make the nasal lining swell and produce more discharge. The fluid may be thin or thicker, and it can drain forwards or towards the throat. Congestion, facial pressure, reduced smell and a cough may occur alongside it. A runny nose is also common with a cold, allergic rhinitis and other irritants, so the symptom by itself does not identify sinusitis. The timing, associated symptoms and whether the problem keeps returning help a clinician assess the pattern.

Blow your nose gently, one side at a time, and use tissues that do not irritate the skin. Fluids, rest and avoiding smoke may make the nose feel more comfortable. Saline spray can moisturise and clear secretions; if you use a rinse, choose sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water and follow the instructions. A pharmacist can advise on suitable symptom relief. Avoid using medicated decongestant sprays beyond the recommended label period.

Get urgent help for eye swelling, vision changes, a severe headache, confusion, a stiff neck or major breathing difficulty. Contact a clinician if the runny nose is persistent, repeatedly returns, becomes strongly one-sided after a head injury, or occurs with severe facial pain, fever or worsening illness. Assessment is useful when symptoms interfere with sleep or daily activities.

Ask whether the discharge and other symptoms suggest sinusitis, allergy or a viral infection. Ask which nasal treatments suit you, how long to try them and what signs mean you should be reviewed.