How is a runny nose treated?
In most cases, runny noses go away on their own. Generally, they don’t need treatment. But there are exceptions, including:
- Sinus infections: Sinus infections can go away on their own. But if your symptoms don’t improve after 10 days, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics, oral or topical decongestants, or intranasal steroid sprays.
- Chronic rhinitis: If you have a chronic (long-term) runny nose, your provider might refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) to determine the underlying cause. You may need surgery for structural problems such as nasal polyps, a deviated septum or enlarged adenoids.
- Nasal foreign bodies: An object stuck in your (or your child’s) nose needs to be removed. Providers use multiple removal techniques, including instruments like tweezers or forceps, forced exhalation and suctioning.
How can I stop a runny nose?
Rhinorrhea typically runs its course. There’s nothing you can do to immediately stop it. It usually goes away in time.
But certain at-home remedies and medicines may provide some relief.
At-home runny nose remedies
Try the following to help with runny nose symptoms:
- Resting.
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Applying a warm, moist washcloth to your face.
- Inhaling steam two to four times a day. One way to do this is to sit in the bathroom with the shower running. Don’t inhale very hot steam.
- Using a humidifier or vaporizer at your bedside. This can combat congestion worsened by dry air.
- Using a saline nasal spray to help clear out mucus. Limit the use of decongestant nasal sprays to no longer than a few days, as instructed on package labels.
Runny nose medicines
Certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help, including:
- Expectorants: These medications can thin mucus to help clear it from your chest. It may help a runny nose, too.
- Decongestants: These medications shrink and dry up your nasal passages. They may help dry up a runny or stuffy nose.
- Antihistamines: These medications can help if your runny nose is due to allergies.
Check with your healthcare provider to see what over-the-counter medicines are appropriate for you. Always follow the instructions on the medications.
Unless your provider recommends it, don’t give over-the-counter cold medicines to a child under 6 years old.
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How long does a runny nose last?
How long a runny nose lasts depends on the underlying cause.
With a viral infection, such as a cold, a runny or stuffy nose can last up to 10 to 14 days. A runny nose from allergies usually lasts as long as you’re exposed to the allergen. If you’re allergic to pollen, it can last six weeks during pollen seasons in the spring, summer or fall.
You should see your healthcare provider if you’ve had a runny nose for more than three weeks that isn’t from a known allergy.
Can a runny nose cause complications?
In some cases, a runny nose can lead to mild complications, including:
- Postnasal drip: Excess mucus can build up and drip down the back of your throat. This can make your throat sore and cause coughing.
- Sinus infection: If a sinus passage becomes blocked, it can lead to a sinus infection, which is often painful. You may need prescription medication to treat it.
- Ear pain or ear infection: If excess mucus backs up into your eustachian tube, it can result in ear pain or an ear infection.
All of these conditions are treatable.
Can I prevent a runny nose?
You can’t always prevent a runny nose. But there are steps you can take to try to avoid getting a viral infection. Here are some simple tips to stop germs from spreading:
- Wash your hands often.
- Keep away from those who have colds or infections.
- Eat healthily and exercise regularly to help boost your immune system.
- Cough and sneeze into the inside of your elbow, not into your hand.
- Clean and disinfect common surfaces such as tables and countertops, toys, door handles, phones and bathroom fixtures.
- Stay up to date with all vaccines.
When it comes to allergies, the following steps may help:
- Stay indoors when the pollen count is high, usually in the early morning and on windy days.
- Keep your windows closed during allergy season, and use air conditioning whenever possible.
- Wear a dust mask if you’re working outdoors. Change your clothing and take a shower right away after coming indoors.
- Avoid contact with cats and dogs if you’re sensitive to animal dander.
- Use antihistamines to help keep allergy symptoms, like a runny nose, at bay.