There are a million reasons why you get a runny nose. Sometimes it happens because it’s cold outside or because you just got done enjoying a spicy meal at Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant.
However, other times a runny nose can be a symptom of a chronic health condition. While most of these issues are not serious, they may require medical attention to improve your symptoms.
You Have Hay Fever
A runny nose is a common symptom of seasonal allergies, also referred to as hay fever. If you have hay fever, it means your body is allergic to pollen or other allergens in the air. This type of allergy is most common in the spring and fall months. Other non-pollen-related allergies, such as an allergy to dust mites or pet dander, can cause a runny nose as well.
Additional signs you have allergies include:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Fatigue
- Postnasal drip
Allergies can sometimes be managed with over-the-counter medications as well as minimizing your exposure to triggers by doing things like staying inside and keeping the windows closed on high pollen count days. However, sometimes you may need prescription-strength medication or a treatment called immunotherapy, which is administered in the form of allergy shots or drops.
Chronic Sinusitis Causing Long Lasting Symptoms
Sinusitis is inflammation and swelling of the tissues that line the sinuses. Apart from a runny nose, common symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion
- Postnasal drip
- Sore throat
- Facial pain or pressure
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
- Loss of smell or taste
If your symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, it’s considered chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis is estimated to affect 37 million Americans.
Nasal sprays and rinses can be used to help relieve inflammation caused by sinusitis and other treatments like antibiotics, antihistamines, nasal steroids and saline washes can all provide longer-term relief. In some cases, surgery may be required to find permanent relief from your condition.
Sinus Polyps
Sinus polyps are soft growths inside your nose and sinuses, which can make it difficult to breathe. They are usually caused by chronic inflammation and are more common in people with conditions like asthma, allergies and chronic sinusitis. Additionally, polyps cause many of the same symptoms as chronic sinusitis, including facial pressure and/or pain and congestion.
Bottom Line
If you have a chronic runny nose or one that is accompanied by other concerning symptoms that are impacting your quality of life, call Foothills ENT today and make an appointment with one of our experts.