A runny nose can be quite annoying, especially when you don’t know what’s causing it. There are many reasons why you might have a runny nose, including allergies, infections, and irritation.

In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of a runny nose and what you can do to treat it.

Allergies

Allergies are a common cause of a runny nose. When your immune system overreacts to an allergen, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, it can cause a runny nose, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms.

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a condition that affects millions of people every year.

If you have allergies, you might also experience itchy and watery eyes, a scratchy throat, and nasal congestion. Allergy symptoms can be seasonal or year-round, depending on what allergens you are sensitive to.

To treat allergy symptoms, you can try over-the-counter antihistamines, which can help to reduce itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Nasal steroids can also be effective at reducing inflammation in the nose.

If your allergies are severe, your doctor might recommend allergy shots, which can reduce your sensitivity to allergens over time.

Infections

Infections are another common cause of a runny nose. The common cold is a viral infection that can cause a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and other symptoms. Other viral infections, such as the flu and COVID-19, can also cause a runny nose.

Bacterial infections, such as sinusitis and pneumonia, can also cause a runny nose. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection.

Symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain, headache, and thick nasal discharge.

To treat a viral infection, you can try over-the-counter remedies such as decongestants and pain relievers. These can help to relieve symptoms and make you more comfortable while your body fights off the infection.

Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, so if you suspect you have a bacterial infection, you should see a doctor for treatment.

Irritants

Irritants in the environment can also cause a runny nose. Exposure to smoke, pollution, and strong odors can irritate the nasal passages and cause a runny nose.

Chemical irritants, such as cleaning products and perfumes, can also trigger a runny nose in some people.

If you think an irritant is causing your runny nose, try to avoid the source of the irritation. You might also find relief by using a saline nasal rinse, which can help to clear out irritants from your nasal passages.

Over-the-counter decongestants can also help to reduce nasal inflammation and relieve symptoms.

Physical Factors

Both physical and structural factors can contribute to a runny nose. For example, a deviated septum, which is a condition where the wall between the nostrils is crooked or displaced, can cause one nostril to be more congested or runny than the other.

In some cases, polyps, which are small growths in the nasal passages, can also cause a runny nose.

In rare cases, a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak can cause a runny nose. This occurs when there is a tear in the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, and the fluid leaks out through the nose.

Other symptoms of a CSF leak include headache, neck stiffness, and a salty taste in the mouth.

If you suspect that a physical factor is causing your runny nose, you should see a doctor for an evaluation. Treatment options might include surgery to correct a deviated septum or remove polyps.

Medications

Some medications can also cause a runny nose as a side effect. Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and some pain relievers can all cause nasal congestion and a runny nose in some people.

Hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills can also affect the nasal passages and cause rhinitis symptoms.

If you suspect that a medication is causing your runny nose, talk to your doctor. They might be able to adjust the dosage or switch you to a different medication that doesn’t cause the same side effects.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women might also experience a runny nose during pregnancy. This can be caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the nasal passages. Pregnancy rhinitis is a common condition that affects up to 30% of pregnant women.

To treat pregnancy rhinitis, women can try using a saline nasal spray to help clear out their nasal passages. Over-the-counter decongestants are not recommended during pregnancy, as they can affect fetal development.

Conclusion

A runny nose can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are many causes and treatments available. If you have a persistent or severe runny nose, you should see a doctor for an evaluation.

By identifying the cause of your runny nose, you can take steps to reduce your symptoms and feel more comfortable.