A runny nose, or rhinorrhea, is a condition in which the sinuses produce thin secretions that drain out of the nostrils of the nose, according to MayoClinic.com. The secretions from a runny nose may also be felt in the back of the throat, called postnasal drip. A runny nose has many causes, such as the common cold, eating spicy foods or airborne allergens. Certain medical conditions can cause someone to develop a chronic runny nose. These conditions include chronic sinusitis, allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps. If a runny nose persists for more than three days, seek medical advice.
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis is defined by MayoClinic.com as inflammation in the sinuses that lasts for more than eight weeks, and is commonly caused by another condition, such as a deviated septum. Chronic sinusitis causes the nasal cavity to constantly become irritated and aggravated, which leads to excessive production of mucus. The secretions from the nose can be thin or thick and can come and go. Chronic sinusitis is commonly accompanied by other symptoms, such as nasal obstruction, sinus pressure and pain felt in the teeth, eyes or ears. A doctor will provide a proper diagnosis.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are a common cause of a chronic runny nose, according to Howard Levine, M.D. of Mt. Sinai Nasal-Sinus Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Because nasal polyps are a constant nuisance in the sinuses, a runny nose results and can remain until the polyps are treated. Nasal polyps are growths in the sinuses that can cause nasal obstruction and pain in the nasal cavity. Nasal polyps are not cancerous and are commonly treated with prescribed corticosteroid nasal sprays. These medications reduce the size of the polyps and help reduce inflammation in the sinus cavity. In some cases, nasal polyps may need to be removed surgically. Talk with an ear, nose and throat specialist for treatment options.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction that produces cold-like symptoms, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. Someone with allergic rhinitis has a hypersensitivity to certain airborne allergens, such as pet dander or pollen, producing a chronic runny nose. Allergic rhinitis is either seasonal, occurring during the spring, or perennial, lasting all year. The allergen will determine if the condition is seasonal or perennial. For example, someone allergic to grass pollen will only experience symptoms during pollen season. A chronic runny nose from allergic rhinitis is treated with oral antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays and decongestants.
