Having a runny nose is not only a nuisance; It can be an indicator of other underlying health conditions.  In 2017, a national health survey conducted found that 30.8 million adults suffer from rhinitis. A runny nose is caused by an irritant or inflammation inside the nose.  Infections such as influenza and allergies are typically the causes of irritation in the nasal tissues.  A runny nose generally clears up on its own with some at home care in a couple of weeks other times it can persist indicating a need for medical treatment.

Home Care

Until it is necessary to see a doctor, there are a few things you can try at home to clear up your runny nose. Gently blowing your nose to clear the mucus and avoid any environmental allergies you know of.  If your symptoms are accompanied by sneezing and watery eyes, you may suffer from allergies.  You can try over-the-counter nose spray medications such as Rhinocort or Flonase.   If a nasal spray is not enough, you can try over-the-counter medications.  Antihistamines such as Benadryl, Allegra or Claritin.  Other studies have revealed that the use of a nose spray with capsaicin will help reduce the symptoms on non-allergic rhinitis.

Allergies

If you have a history of allergies from the environment, aside from simple remedies, there are a few things you can try.  These steps may reduce your allergy symptoms from worsening and until you have an appointment with your doctor.

Use a humidifier at night will keep your nasal passages from drying out from low humidity and blowing your nose.  To lower the irritants inside the nasal passage, try a saline solution spray. When you are cleaning out places in your home that may have a high level of allergens, wear a mask.  A place like this is a closet, basements and other storage areas.  If you smoke, try to quit and avoid second-hand smoke as much as possible.  The chemicals in smoke can inflame nasal tissues making symptoms worse.

Time to See the Doctor

If your symptoms do not clear up on their own even with self-care, it is time to see your doctor or allergist.  If you are running a fever or if the mucus is yellow or green, you may suffer from a sinus infection or bacterial infection.  You may feel pain in the sinuses if it is a sinus infection.  If you spot blood in your mucus and recently suffered a head injury, call your doctor immediately.

Getting top quality medical care is important to a healthy lifestyle.  If you are one who suffers from chronic runny nose or rhinitis, it may be time to call the doctor.  Talk to your allergist about any symptoms you have over an extended period.  Your treatment plan may be a combination of over-the-counter medications and a test for allergies.  Your doctor may also recommend prescription medication for allergies or for an infection.  Don’t suffer any longer, contact us today and set an appointment.