A condition called rhinitis, or runny nose, happens frequently in children. A runny nose occurs when an overabundance of fluid or mucous caused by irritated nasal tissues and blood vessels exits the nose or drains from the nose into the throat, according to MayoClinic.com. While a runny nose is usually no cause for concern, chronic runny noses may require a trip to the doctor's office. A variety of causes may result in a chronic runny nose in a child.
Allergies
A chronic runny nose in children may result from allergies, the St. John Providence Health System notes. Allergic rhinitis occurs in more than 15 percent of children in the U.S. A runny nose from allergies happens when allergenic particles like plant pollen, mold, pet dander and dust are breathed in, causing an immune system reaction that triggers the nasal tissues to excrete mucus. Physicians recommend preventing children from coming in contact with allergens to prevent chronic runny nose and warn that an accompanying high fever, breathing problems or facial pain may be a sign of something more dangerous.
Foreign Body
Dr. Leo Leonidas of Tufts University School of Medicine notes in his BrilliantBaby.com website that a chronic runny nose in children may occur if there is a foreign body stuck inside the nasal passage. This condition usually presents as discharge coming from only one nostril, accompanied by bad breath. MayoClinic.com recommends that parents try to dislodge the object in the nasal passage with tweezers if it is visible but warn not to probe at it or encourage the children to inhale the object by breathing in forcefully. Pressing the unobstructed nostril closed and blowing out gently may release the object. If these methods do not work, seek medical intervention.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection is a frequent cause of a chronic runny nose in children, according to St. John Providence Health System. Sinus infections occur when bacteria or a virus infects one of the sinus cavities located in the head, and many times a sinus infection begins as a common cold. A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, may last more than 12 weeks and become recurrent, reports the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Physicians may recommend antibiotics, decongestants and pain relievers to help clear up sinus infections in children.
