What causes a scratchy throat and runny nose?

The common cold often develops with sneezing, congestion, cough, tiredness, or a mild fever. Allergic rhinitis may cause repeated sneezing, itchy eyes, and clear nasal drainage after exposure to pollen, dust, or another trigger. COVID-19 and influenza can also begin with throat and nose symptoms, with fever, fatigue, or body aches adding context. Sinusitis is more suggestive when facial pressure, blocked drainage, or symptoms that worsen after initial improvement are present. House dust mite allergy and pet allergy can cause symptoms that recur in particular rooms or around animals.

Symptoms overlap, so the timing, exposures, fever, breathing, and general health matter more than the nose discharge alone.

Rest, drink fluids, and use saline nasal spray or rinsing with safe water to ease irritation and clear mucus. Wash hands and avoid sharing cups while an infection is possible. Reduce exposure to smoke, dust, and known allergens. A pharmacist can help select symptom relief that fits your age, pregnancy status, medicines, and health conditions. Consider a COVID-19 test when symptoms or a known exposure make testing appropriate.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or throat, confusion, severe weakness, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt assessment for a persistent high fever, severe facial pain, symptoms that are rapidly worsening, or symptoms in a baby or someone with significant immune or lung problems. If the runny nose continues or repeatedly disrupts sleep, discuss it with a clinician.

Ask whether the pattern fits an infection, allergy, or sinus problem, whether testing is useful, and which nasal treatment is safe for you. Explain how long symptoms have lasted, whether they follow a particular exposure, and whether you have fever, facial pain, or breathing changes.