Frequent colds and runny nose: what to know

A runny nose is mucus drainage from the nasal lining. The common cold and influenza can present with a runny nose alongside sore throat, cough, tiredness or fever. Allergic rhinitis may cause clear drainage, sneezing and itchy eyes that recur around a trigger such as pollen, house dust mites or pets. Sinusitis may cause facial pressure, blocked nose and thicker discharge, particularly when symptoms persist or worsen after initial improvement. COVID-19 can also cause cold-like symptoms, so testing advice may depend on your current exposure and local guidance.

Rest, drink fluids and use saline nasal spray or rinse if suitable for you. Wash hands, avoid sharing towels and improve ventilation when someone nearby is ill. For a recurring pattern, note season, location, pets, dust, temperature changes, fever and facial pain. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on allergy treatment; avoid using decongestant nasal sprays for longer than their instructions because overuse can worsen blockage. Antibiotics do not treat ordinary viral colds.

Arrange an appointment if symptoms recur unusually often, interfere with sleep, last longer than expected, or affect breathing, smell or daily activities. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, swelling of the lips or face, dehydration, confusion, severe headache with a stiff neck, or a high fever with marked deterioration. Persistent one-sided blockage or bloody discharge also deserves clinical review.

Ask whether your symptoms fit infection, allergic rhinitis or sinusitis, and whether testing or an allergy review is useful. Discuss nasal medicines, safe duration of use and ways to reduce dust or pet exposure. Mention fever, wheeze, facial pain, smell changes, medicines and the pattern across seasons or locations.