What should you know about effective treatment for a runny nose?

A runny nose is extra fluid draining from the nasal lining. A common cold, influenza, or COVID-19 may bring congestion, cough, sore throat, fever, or feeling unwell. Allergic rhinitis can cause repeated sneezing, itchy eyes, and clear drainage after exposure to pollen, dust mites, or pets.

Thicker mucus, facial pressure, reduced smell, or symptoms that persist after a cold may occur with sinusitis. The pattern, colour, duration, exposures, and accompanying symptoms help a clinician choose the right treatment; mucus colour alone does not identify the cause.

Use a saline nasal spray or rinse prepared with safe water, and blow your nose gently. Drink fluids, rest, and avoid smoke and other irritants. Wash hands and consider reducing close contact if a viral infection is possible.

For allergy-related symptoms, reducing exposure and using a pharmacist-recommended antihistamine or nasal treatment may help. Follow the label, check for drowsiness, and ask before using decongestant sprays for longer than advised because overuse can worsen blockage. Antibiotics are not useful for every runny nose.

Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, or a serious allergic reaction. Arrange assessment for persistent one-sided drainage, recurrent nosebleeds, severe facial pain, worsening fever, dehydration, or symptoms that are not improving.

Does my pattern fit an allergy, cold, influenza, COVID-19, or sinusitis? Which nasal spray or tablet is suitable with my other medicines? How can I reduce exposure to dust mites or pets, and when should persistent drainage be examined?