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What causes runny nose?

Where Runny Nose is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline
Illustration: Where Runny Nose is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline

Short answer

The nose makes extra fluid when its lining is irritated or inflamed. Viruses such as those causing a common cold, influenza or COVID-19 can trigger it. Allergic rhinitis and house dust mite allergy often cause clear drainage, sneezing and itching. Sinusitis may bring congestion, facial pressure and thicker mucus. Smoke, perfume, dry air, temperature changes and spicy foods can cause a short-lived watery flow without an infection.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Clear and itchy
Often fits an allergic pattern
More concerning
Breathing difficulty, eye swelling or severe facial pain

What accompanying symptoms tell you

Clear discharge with itchy eyes or repeated sneezing points toward allergy, while sore throat, cough or fever fits a respiratory infection. Facial pain, reduced smell or symptoms that improve and then worsen can occur with sinus inflammation. Mucus colour alone does not prove that antibiotics are needed. The duration, severity and effect on breathing matter more than appearance by itself.

Ways to ease a runny nose

Drink normally, rest, and use saline spray or a gentle rinse if it feels helpful; use clean water and follow the product instructions. Reduce exposure to smoke, strong scents and known allergens. Wash hands and avoid close contact when respiratory infection is possible. A pharmacist can advise about allergy medication or other symptom relief, taking account of pregnancy, age, blood pressure and existing medicines.

When to seek care

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, confusion, severe dehydration, or a serious allergic reaction. Arrange medical advice for persistent high fever, severe facial pain, swelling around an eye, a weakened immune system, or symptoms that keep worsening. A child with breathing difficulty, poor feeding or unusual sleepiness should be assessed promptly.

Questions for your doctor

Do my symptoms fit allergy, a viral infection or sinusitis? Would allergy medication help, and is a saline rinse suitable? Which changes should make me seek review?

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Does yellow or green mucus always mean a bacterial infection?

No. Mucus can change colour during an ordinary viral illness; the overall pattern and how symptoms progress are more useful clues.

Can dust cause a runny nose?

Yes. Dust and house dust mite allergy can irritate the nasal lining, especially when accompanied by sneezing or itching.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.