Sinus runny nose: what to know

Clear, watery discharge with sneezing or itchy eyes can fit allergic rhinitis, including reactions to house dust mites or pets. A common cold often brings congestion, sore throat, cough, or tiredness. Influenza may begin abruptly with fever, body aches, and marked fatigue; COVID-19 can also cause respiratory symptoms and may need testing according to current local advice. Sinusitis may follow a cold and add facial pressure, reduced smell, fever, or thicker discharge. A runny nose alone cannot identify one condition.

Blow your nose gently, drink fluids, and use saline spray to soothe the nasal passages. Wash hands and avoid sharing towels or utensils if an infection is possible. Reduce exposure to smoke, dust, and known allergy triggers. A pharmacist can recommend a suitable antihistamine or other treatment after checking your age, medicines, pregnancy status, and medical conditions. Use medicines only as directed, and avoid antibiotics unless prescribed after an assessment.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, blue lips, severe dehydration, confusion, chest pain, or swelling around an eye. Contact a clinician for a high or persistent fever, severe facial pain, worsening symptoms after initial improvement, repeated episodes, or symptoms in a person with significant long-term illness. Ask about testing and staying away from others when fever or a contagious respiratory infection is possible.

Ask whether the pattern suggests allergy, a common cold, influenza, COVID-19, or sinusitis, and which treatment is suitable. Mention the discharge colour and duration, fever, cough, breathing symptoms, exposures, allergies, and medicines you have tried.