A runny nose can result from allergies, infection, virus, inflammation or other abnormal processes. Runny noses consist of significant amounts of nasal fluid and occur in all age groups and populations. The body uses a runny nose to flush out antibodies, proteins and salt water that can result from allergies or the common cold. Runny nose symptoms are bothersome, but there are remedies to treat the symptoms.
Medication
Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications, like antihistamines, provide relief for runny noses when caused by allergies. Types of antihistamines include Benadryl, Zyrtec and Claritin. Decongestants provide relief for runny noses as well and are a common form of treatment for nasal dysfunction, state the University of California, San Diego School of Medicines. Decongestants work by reducing blood flow to mucus membranes. They come in oral form and nasal sprays.
Other types of medication that treat a runny nose are antibiotics, nasal steroids, and nasal irrigation. You can speak to your doctor about the best medication to use to treat your runny nose symptoms.
Tea
Tea is a natural remedy for runny nose and many other health conditions. Teas are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Teas come in various forms including green, black, white, and herbal teas, among others. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that teas can be useful for boosting the immune system, neutralizing free radicals in the body, promoting digestion and treating various health conditions.
Ginger
Ginger has various medicinal properties that can help relieve a cold and runny nose. Ginger has a high context of antioxidants and other nutritional properties like potassium, vitamins, silicon, iron, selenium and manganese, which helps build defenses against disease. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that Ginger extract is an ingredient for many cold and flu, digestive and anti-nausea medications in the United States. Common forms of ginger include fresh and dried root, ginger tea, capsules and liquid extracts.
Humidifiers
Clean and moistened air help to treat runny nose symptoms. Moistened air or steam from a humidifier help relive mucous and remove dust, allergens and secretion from the nose. By keeping the nasal membranes moist and healthy, it can help in counteracting the causes of a runny nose. The University of Alabama at Birmingham reports that a humidifier is beneficial to removing dry air that cause colds to last longer and treating blockage in the nasal membranes. Keeping a humidifier clean is important so that microorganisms do not grow in the tank and become airborne.
