COLD AND FLU BASICS
What Causes a Runny Nose?
We’ve all had to deal with an annoying runny nose. Aside from being embarrassing, all that wiping and blowing can irritate our noses. But why do we even have a runny nose in the first place? Runny noses occur when excess drainage is produced by tissues and blood vessels in the nose. This drainage can be caused by a variety of things, but the most common are infections — such as the common cold and influenza. Allergies and other irritants may also cause a runny nose. The drainage may range from a clear fluid to a thick mucus. The drainage can run out of your nose, down the back of your throat, or both.
How to treat a runny nose
A runny nose will almost always get better on its own, so antibiotics are not needed to treat it. Still, a runny nose is annoying, so here are a few ways to ease the discomfort of your runny nose:
- Use a humidifier
- Drink plenty of water
- Try nasal saline sprays or rinses
Over-the-counter medicines, like NeoCitran, that contain antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine HCI can make a big difference and make your nose a little happier while your cold or flu clears up.
