What should you know about over-the-counter treatment for a runny nose?

A runny nose is watery mucus leaving the nose. Allergic rhinitis, house dust mite allergy, and pet allergy commonly present with sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. A common cold, influenza, or COVID-19 may present with a runny nose alongside sore throat, cough, tiredness, fever, or body aches. Sinusitis may present with blocked passages, facial pressure, and thicker discharge.

Colour alone does not identify the cause. The timing, triggers, fever, breathing symptoms, and how long the problem lasts are more useful when deciding whether self-care is reasonable.

A saline nasal spray or rinse can loosen mucus and reduce irritants; use clean water as directed for any rinse device. Drink normally, rest, and avoid smoke or other known triggers. For allergy-pattern symptoms, reducing exposure to dust, pets, or pollen may help.

A pharmacist can help choose an antihistamine or nasal treatment. Check whether it causes drowsiness, whether it duplicates an ingredient in a cold remedy, and whether a decongestant is suitable if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, or are pregnant. Use nasal decongestant sprays only as labelled because prolonged use can worsen congestion.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, severe wheezing, confusion, or a sudden severe headache. Arrange medical advice for facial swelling, severe one-sided facial pain, persistent fever, repeated nosebleeds, or symptoms that are worsening rather than settling.

If you may have COVID-19 or influenza, follow local testing and infection-control advice and limit close contact while unwell. Recurrent symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily life may need assessment for allergic rhinitis or another cause.

Ask whether your symptoms fit an allergy, cold, influenza, COVID-19, or sinus problem; which active ingredient suits your conditions; and how long to use a spray or tablet.