Runny Nose Home Remedies: What You Should Know

A runny nose, also called rhinorrhoea, happens when the lining of the nose produces extra fluid. A clear discharge with sneezing, itchy eyes, or symptoms after exposure to dust or an animal can occur with Allergic Rhinitis, House Dust Mite Allergy, or Pet Allergy. A runny nose with sore throat, cough, tiredness, or fever can occur with Common Cold, Influenza, or COVID-19. Facial pressure, blocked drainage, and thick discharge may occur with Sinusitis. The symptom alone cannot identify its cause.

Sip water or another suitable drink regularly, especially if you also have a fever or a sore throat. Saline nasal spray or a saline rinse can loosen mucus and reduce dryness; use clean water prepared according to the product instructions for any rinse device. Blow your nose gently, one side at a time, and wash your hands afterwards. Rest, and avoid cigarette smoke, strong fragrances, dust, and other triggers that make the drainage worse. A clean humidified room may feel more comfortable, but avoid very hot steam because it can burn skin and airways. Ask a pharmacist before using a decongestant or antihistamine, particularly if you are pregnant, have a long-term condition, or take regular medicines.

Seek urgent care for difficult or fast breathing, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or swelling of the face or throat. Arrange medical advice if the discharge is bloody and recurrent, follows a head injury, comes from only one nostril with a bad smell, or occurs with severe facial pain, dehydration, persistent high fever, or worsening symptoms. Contact a clinician if a runny nose keeps returning, affects sleep or daily activities, or does not settle with simple measures. Mention any exposure to someone with COVID-19 or Influenza and ask which testing or treatment is appropriate.

You could ask: What cause best fits my pattern of symptoms? Could allergies or a sinus problem be contributing? Which nasal treatment is suitable with my other medicines or health conditions? What signs should prompt urgent care? If symptoms recur after a particular place, season, food, or animal exposure, ask whether keeping a symptom and trigger diary would help.