A runny nose is a defense mechanism of your body to protect you from allergies and cold viruses. When an allergen enters your sinus, your nose may start making lots of fluids. This may result in Rhinorrhea or a runny nose. It is quite common among the population. Sometimes, a runny nose can also be one of the symptoms of flu or COVID-19. If you have a persistent runny nose, you should immediately get checked by an ent specialist in Dibrugarh. You can also book a doctor’s appointment for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here is a complete guide on everything you need to know about runny nose or Rhinorrhea.
What Causes A Runny Nose?
There are several causes behind having a runny nose. They are as follows:
- Allergies – Allergies are the most common cause of Rhinorrhea. They are caused by allergens such as dust, pollen grains, ragweed, or pet dander. When these allergens are inhaled, they can cause irritation in the nasal passage and result in a runny nose. Rhinorrhea is nothing but a defense mechanism of your body in this case.
- Cold temperatures – Cold temperatures can also cause a runny nose. When the temperature goes down below the optimal value, the fluid glands of your sinuses can get affected causing a runny nose. If the condition is persistent, you can visit an ent specialist in Dibrugarh for quick treatment.
- Common cold or Flu – One of the major symptoms of the common cold is a runny nose. When the virus affects your system, there is an inflammation in the mucosal membrane that results in a large amount of mucus formation. This causes a flow of extra mucus from your nose.
- COVID-19 – In the times of the ongoing pandemic, it is a common symptom to get a runny nose due to COVID-19. The virus, just like the common cold or Flu virus, causes the excessive formation of mucus in the sinuses resulting in Rhinorrhea. If you have a persistent runny nose, get tested by an ent specialist in Dibrugarh immediately.
- Medications – Some medications can also cause side effects like a runny nose. If you have taken any recent medication and are suffering from Rhinorrhea, book a doctor’s appointment for consultation as soon as possible.
Symptoms Of Runny Nose
Here are some of the common symptoms of a runny nose.
- Persistent discharge of watery fluid from your nose.
- Continuous sneezing.
- Constant Irritation in your nose.
- Inflamed mucosal membrane.
- Blocked nose.
- Redness at the tip of your nose.
Treatment Options Or Runny Nose
As the causes for a runny nose vary, the medical treatment depends on it. If you have a runny nose due to some allergy, find out what particular allergen is causing it. Try to avoid such allergens as constant exposure may damage your nasal passages and upper respiratory system. On the other hand, if you have a cold or flu, visit an ent specialist in Dibrugarh immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Also, taking the full course of medicines is important for complete relief from the common cold or Flu.
You may also suffer from COVID-19 because a runny nose or Rhinorrhea is a common symptom of this disease. Take a test to make sure whether you are suffering from COVID-19 and take all the precautions accordingly.
Home Remedies For Treating Runny Nose
If you are suffering from Rhinorrhea, drink plenty of water to get immediate relief. Also, using a humidifier can provide quick relief. If you are experiencing an allergic reaction, try taking a non-sedating antihistamine to get relief from Rhinorrhea. Hot tea or hot chocolate can also help relieve Rhinorrhea. You may also take a hot water bath for quick relief.
When to see a doctor
It is always a good decision to get checked by a doctor if the symptoms of a runny nose are persistent for more than 10 days. Also if you are having a high fever, green nasal discharge, emphysema, asthma, or bloody discharge.
Rhinorrhea or a runny nose is most often harmless as it is just a defense mechanism of your body against allergens and viruses. The symptoms often subside on their own after a few hours. However, if these symptoms are persistent for more than a week, it is better to book a doctor’s appointment for a check-up. You can visit an ent specialist in Dibrugarh for a proper insight on why the problem is occurring and what are its remedies.
