A runny nose is a common health condition experienced by almost every human. It may vary from a transparent fluid to glue-like mucus depending on the severity of the condition. This guide will help you know an important runny nose remedy and other treatments that can help a person deal with this condition.
Causes of a runny nose
A runny nose is caused due to excessive drainage that is produced by tissues and blood vessels in the nose and areas surrounding to it. It may be visible as it drains out of the nose and can often cause the nose to appear reddish or swollen.
The technical terms for a runny nose are rhinorrhea and rhinitis. Rhinorrhea is clear and thin drainage from the nose, while rhinitis is caused due to swelling of the nasal tissues due to different reasons, resulting in a runny nose.
The most widespread cause for a runny nose is the occurrence of the common cold or an infection in the sinuses. Other reasons for a runny nose include hay fever, dust, or pollen allergies and in rare cases—nasal polyps. A person should seek medical attention if the nose feels inflamed and painful.
Preventive measures such as dusting or vacuuming regularly, avoiding polluted or smoke-filled areas, regular washing of all bedding and linen in the home, and using special air filters in the home can help prevent a runny use.
Effective remedies for a runny nose
A runny nose may be a minor condition, but it can impair the daily routine of a person.
Drinking plenty of liquids is known as an effective runny nose remedy that works in most cases. Consuming lots of warm water, hot tea, or chicken soup are home remedies that do wonders. Herbal tea with an infusion of chamomile, mint, or ginger helps to soothe the throat and nose.
The steam from these hot liquids opens up the stuffiness in your nose, aids in decongestion of the throat and airways. It enables the mucus to thin out so it can easily drain out of the throat. This simple home remedy is one of the most effective treatments for a leaky nose.
Although consuming fluids may not completely cure a common cold, along with other medication, it can provide relief from a runny nose. This runny nose remedy helps with dehydration—a common symptom that accompanies a runny nose.
While most hot beverages are useful. It is important to avoid fluids such as coffee, alcohol, or other caffeinated drinks that can cause dehydration. It is better to keep the body hydrated most of the time.
Other treatments for a runny nose
A runny nose is often caused by a viral infection like the common cold which does not respond to antibiotics. There are a number of other treatments that help in decongesting a runny nose. Most of these are simple, accessible, and can go a long way in alleviating a runny nose.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine can help with decongestion. However, a person can experience side effects such as a feeling of dizziness, drowsiness, or dryness of the mouth. It is best to consult a doctor before taking such mediation.
Inhaling steam
Inhaling steam is an old runny nose treatment can help decongest the nose and throat and provide comfort from a runny nose. It can also help reduce the duration of a runny nose spell.
The process of facial steaming is a simple home remedy for a runny nose and requires only a few minutes to get started. Breathing in the steam for a few minutes can help in relieving a person of a runny nose.
Adding a few drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus, sage, peppermint, or tea tree to the hot water can be helpful. The steam from a hot shower also works in a similar way.
Neti pot
A neti pot is a nasal spray system that is effective while treating a runny nose. It is similar to a teapot with a spout. A mixture of warm salt water is added to the pot and the solution is then poured into one nostril and comes out of the other nostril. It helps in the in-depth rinsing of the sinuses.
A neti pot can be easily purchased at a local pharmacy. It is important to use distilled water and follow all the directions properly. Consult a doctor to understand and implement the correct procedure. Using the neti pot inaccurately can do more harm than good.
Spicy foods
The heat from food that contains cayenne pepper, habanero, wasabi, ginger, or horseradish can help to relieve a runny nose caused due to a congested nasal passage. However, if a person is not used to these spicy foods, it is best to avoid them.
