Rhinorrhea

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Rhinorrhea, more commonly referred to as a runny nose, is an excess drainage produced by nasal and adjacent tissues and blood vessels in the nose. This drainage can range from a clear fluid to thick mucus and can run out of your nose, down the back of your throat or both.

Rhinorrhea nasal congestion

Causes[edit | edit source]

  • The most common causes of rhinorrhea include:
  • Common cold: This viral infection of your upper respiratory tract is the most common cause of a runny nose.
  • Allergies: Many people have rhinorrhea when they're exposed to common allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, or mold.
  • Sinusitis: This inflammation of the sinuses often follows a cold and can cause postnasal drip.
  • Flu (Influenza): Rhinorrhea is a common symptom of the flu.
Illu nose nasal cavities

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

In addition to a runny nose, rhinorrhea may be accompanied by sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, sinus pressure, and sore throat.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for rhinorrhea depends on its cause. For a runny nose caused by a virus, rest, warm liquids, and over-the-counter cold remedies can help. If an allergy is causing rhinorrhea, antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, or desensitization therapy (allergy shots) may be recommended.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention strategies can include hand hygiene to prevent infection, avoiding allergens, and using a humidifier to keep nasal and throat passages moist.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • "Rhinorrhea: Causalities and Treatment Strategies". National Center for Biotechnology Information.
  • "Runny nose". Mayo Clinic.
  • "Rhinorrhea". American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

External Links[edit | edit source]

Rhinorrhea - MedlinePlus Rhinorrhea - American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Rhinorrhea Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD