A runny nose, or rhinorrhea, is a condition where extra mucus runs down the back of the throat and out of the nose, according to the Mayo Clinic. A runny nose is commonly caused by the common cold, allergies and irritation of the sinus cavity by environmental factors. A runny nose may, however, be a sign of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a medical professional if it is chronic or worrisome. All treatments should be administered while under the care of a doctor. If any treatment causes adverse reactions, stop use and talk with a physician.
Thin Mucus
Thinning the mucus produced by the sinuses will help alleviate the symptoms of a runny nose, according to MedlinePlus. Thin mucus secretions by increasing the amount of fluids ingested and increasing the humidity in the air you breathe. Drink clear liquids, such as water, and avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. Hot tea and broth from soups are used to treat a runny nose because they increase the moisture in the sinuses and provide heat that thins the mucus. Increase humidity in the home by running a cool or warm mist humidifier. A humidifier will help keep the sinus cavity from becoming dry and will provide better breathing. Keep warm mist humidifiers away from young children and clean daily to prevent mold growth.
Take Medication
Depending on the cause of the runny nose, take over-the-counter medication to treat the symptom. A runny nose is commonly the result of the common cold, allergies or a sinus infection, according to MedlinePlus. According to FamilyDoctor.org, decongestants are used to treat sinus inflammation that leads to a runny nose. Decongestants restrict the amount of blood in the nasal cavity, reducing the swelling. Antihistamines are used to treat allergy-related symptoms and reduce the amount of mucus in the sinus cavity. Some antihistamines can make the user severely drowsy and should be used with caution. If the runny nose produces postnasal drip, a cough suppressant may be needed to manage the cough.
Use Saline Irrigation
According to NPR News, saline irrigation helps to treat and cure a runny nose. Saline irrigation comes in various methods. The neti pot, a teapot-shaped instrument, uses gravity to force saline solution throughout the entire sinus cavity. The user places the spout of the pot filled with warm saltwater on one nostril, and pours the contents in the nose. The solution comes out the other nostril, clearing the sinuses of any irritants, allergens or excess mucus. Other methods use a squeeze bottle that the user squeezes to force saltwater into the nostrils.
