Pills for a runny nose: what to know

A watery nose with sneezing or itchy eyes often fits allergic rhinitis, including reactions to house dust mites or pets. A runny nose with sore throat, cough or fever can occur with a common cold, influenza or COVID-19. Facial pressure, thick discharge and symptoms that do not settle may occur with sinusitis. The pattern, timing and associated symptoms help determine whether an antihistamine or another approach is appropriate.

Read the active ingredients on combination cold products so you do not take the same ingredient twice. Some antihistamines cause drowsiness, while decongestants may be unsuitable for people with certain blood pressure or heart problems. Follow the package or prescription directions, drink normally, and consider saline nasal rinsing if advised. Reduce exposure to a known trigger and stay home when an infection is suspected.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or face, severe wheezing, confusion or a rapidly worsening allergic reaction. Arrange medical review for high fever, severe facial pain, breathing symptoms, dehydration, or a runny nose that persists or repeatedly disrupts sleep despite appropriate self-care.

Ask whether your pattern suggests allergy, infection or sinus disease, which ingredient is suitable with your medicines, and whether drowsiness could affect work or driving. Ask how long to try the treatment before arranging a review.