Get insights on how to stop a runny nose instantly. Stuffy nose is another term often used to refer to obstruction to the flow of air in and out of the nose, while runny nose refers to a discharge of a fluid from the nostril. The fluid is normally water and clear, but may be thicker and viscous. Both stuffy and runny nose are associated with inflammation and swelling of the inner lining of the nasal passages and sinuses.
Rhinitis is a term that refers to inflammation that occurs in the nasal passages, while rhinorrhea is the medical term for runny nose. A viral infection is the most common cause of a stuffy and/or runny nose, but allergies, influenza, other viral infections like respiratory syncytial virus and sinus infections also may cause these symptoms. Postnasal drip may be an associated symptom as well. This occurs when there is excess production of mucus by the lining cells in your nose, which accumulates in the back of the nose or throat.
Symptoms associated with runny nose
Common symptoms that are associated with runny nose may include:
- a stuffy nose
- an itchy nose
- a sore or scratchy throat
- itchy eyes
- dark circles under the eyes
- frequent headaches
- eczema-type symptoms, such as having extremely dry, itchy skin that often blisters
- hives
- excessive fatigue
Someone is able to feel one or more of these symptoms immediately after coming into contact with an allergen. Some symptoms, such as recurrent headaches and fatigue, may only happen after long-term exposure to the condition causing the runny nose.
Other symptoms include:
- Runny Nose, Watery Eyes, and Sneezing
When you have a cold, your body makes chemicals called histamines. That leads to sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine block this process and can relieve those symptoms. They can also make you sleepy and dry out your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cough
You have two main choices in the cold-and-flu aisle and one is by use of Cough suppressants, like dextromethorphan, can provide relief for a short time. They work on the part of your brain that controls the process. Use also expectorants, like guaifenesin, can break up congestion in your chest by thinning the mucus in your airways. This way, when you do cough, you can get rid of phlegm more easily. Drink plenty of water if you take this medicine.
- Fever, Aches, and Sore Throat
These symptoms are usually mild with a cold compared to a more serious illness, such as flu. If you feel bad and can’t rest, most experts agree it is fine to take something to ease pain and lower a fever.
Causes of a Runny Nose
Runny nose can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections such as the common cold and influenza allergies and various irritants are common causes. Some people have a chronically runny nose for no apparent reason which a condition is called non- allergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis (VMR).
When the excessive mucus comes out of the nose it is regarded as a runny nose. This condition is caused by various factors and among them includes the following:
- Common colds and flu
This is a condition that can affect anyone. It is caused by viral infection which may result to congestion of the nose. When bacteria are involved, the fluid discharged may be green or yellow in color with a lot of difficulty in breathing.
- Allergies regarded as allergic postnasal drip.
This is another major cause of stuffed up and runny nose. If the environment you work in or spend most of your time contains allergens that don’t work well to your hormones, you will be a victim of this problem all through. Allergies have been found to be one of the most common causes of nose conditions.
- Sinus infection (the inflammation of the sinuses)
Your sinus may be affected by bacteria or any other disease causing virus. When this happen, your nose passage may swell up make it hard for you to breath. The swelling may be accompanied by a runny nose in many cases.
- Stuck of object in the nasal passages
This condition is very common in young children. This is because children are used to playing so much with objects. A foreign body may enter the nose and get stuck. This may lead to a discharge which sometimes may be accompanied by a bad smell. In this case, it very important that you visit your doctor for better health cares.
- Changes in weather conditions
Some people may react with the change of weather conditions such as cold temperatures or excessive dryness in air. This is common with people who are allergic to certain weather conditions. You have to see your doctor for advice in case the season you are allergic to is approaching.
Other common causes for a runny nose may include the following:
- Certain types of foods such as spices.
- Irritants such as chemical fumes, perfumes, smoke and cleaning products.
- Certain types of medication such as blood pressure medications and birth control pills.
- Abnormalities in nasal structure such as deviated septum and sinuses.
- Acute sinusitis
- Chronic sinusitis
- Churg-strauss syndrome
- Decongestant nasal spray overuse
- Deviated septum
- Drug addiction
- Hormonal changes
- Medications
- Nasal polyps
- Non-allergic rhinitis
- Occupational asthma
- Pregnancy
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- Spinal fluid leak
- Tobacco smoke
How to Stop a Runny Nose Instantly, Immediately
Excess nasal discharge and drainage, which can run the gamut from thin and clear to thick green or yellow mucus, is far from a nice image and even more annoying to experience, often resulting in turning the delicate skin around our noses raw from all the blowing, not to mention having to wash our hands every time we do it in order to try and avoid spreading the germs.
How to get rid of a runny nose immediately
A runny nose can be annoying to many of us in many cases. However, there are a number of ways that can help if you will, the whole flushing out process, or curb the more intrusive effects of the runny nose. You can try some of the following activities and you will find the perfect runny nose remedy for you here.
- Blow your nose
Blowing your nose is, of course, the most obvious first solution. But it can only go so far if your nose will not stop leaking. If it is a bit more moderate, then I would advise trying to blow at the sink with water as often as possible, to avoid irritating and hurting the skin around your nose. To add on that, it makes it easier to wash your hands after to help stop the spreading, so, score.
- Spicy Foods
Apart from being delicious, spicy foods have been used for centuries for their health benefits. In this case, foods like garlic, which contain a mild decongestant, and hot peppers, which contain capsaicin, may help thin the mucus and thus aid in its drainage.
- Steam up
No better excuse to steam it up because it’s an excellent way to loosen the mucus, keep the nasal passages nice and moist and help drain the sinuses. You can take a hot bath or steamy shower, inhale over a bowl of boiling water with a towel over your head (carefully!) or use a steam inhaler machine. Some people like to add eucalyptus oil, ginger or thyme to their steam too.
- Saline
Saline can be extremely helpful in thinning the mucous and helping to soothe the membranes. You can use a syringe, a neti pot, nasal spray or other nasal irrigation technique. Sounds gross, but it can seriously help.
- Stopper
If you just can’t stand the constant leaking, try balling up a couple of small pieces of tissue and gently placing them in the opening of your nostrils. That way they can absorb some of the mucus without your having to blow so much. Of course, this pro tip is recommended for use at home
Home Remedies for Runny Nose
The reasons behind the runny nose can be change of weather, some infection or allergy. The sore throat problem also comes along with a runny nose, which can be really bothering. Try out the ways listed in this article to get rid of a runny nose quickly.
Remedies to Stop a Runny Nose
- Take a hot Shower
Take a hot water shower to clear your nasal passage and stop a runny nose. Fill your lungs with steam by breathing in and out while having hot water shower which can help in clearing the congestion in your nose. This is an effective way to get rid of a runny nose.
- Take Steam with Vicks
Breathe in and out with steam to clear the congestion. Heat from the steam will ease your congestion. Take water in a boiling pot and boil. Lean your head towards the pot and breathe in gently. You can try this method very often during the day.
- Apply Warm Compress
Take a cloth and wet it in hot water. Apply the warm wet cloth over your nose. Don’t overheat the water. Heat the water as much as you can stand. Lean your head towards the pot and breathe in gently. You can try this method very often during the day.
- Use Decongestants
Decongestants can be used effectively to clear congestion and get rid of a runny nose. Decongestants can be applied in the form of spray or can be taken in the form of a pill.
Read instructions carefully before using decongestants. Don’t take decongestants without a doctor’s prescription for more than 3 days.
- Use Humidifier
Humidifiers keep the air moist and liquidate the dry mucus from your nose so that it can be flushed out. You can make a humidifier at home. Take a pot and boil water in it and let the steam make the air moist around you. Do not overdo it as humidifiers are effective to an extent else too much moisture can also cause problems. Humidifier is an effective way to get rid of a runny nose quickly and easily.
- Tea or Coffee
Sometimes a sore throat also comes with stuffy nose. Drink tea or coffee to soothe the sore throat. You can try having hot water with lemon and honey. Tea helps to keep you hydrated if you have dry cold. Boil water and put some tea leaves in it. Add some honey and lemon. It will relieve you from a runny nose and you will feel better.
- Apply Vapor Rub or Oil
A very common vapour rub that comes in the market is Vicks Vapour rub for runny nose. It helps to relieve congestion and runny nose. Vapour rubs have a strong smell of menthol, which helps in treating nasal congestion. Vicks vapour rub can be applied on the nose and chest to get relief. This method can be used before going to bed. Eucalyptus oil can be massaged over the nose bridge to get rid of a runny nose. You can keep eucalyptus oil in a bowl near your bed so that you can breathe the aroma in the air while sleeping.
- Keep Yourself Hydrated
Drink lots of water during the day to get rid of a runny nose. Keep your body hydrated, water will liquidate the thick mucus and will help in flushing it out. Water will help to soothe the congestion and helps to clear the blockage due to the mucus. Water has many key benefits and getting rid of a runny nose is one of them.
- Identify the Cause to Get Rid of a Runny Nose
There are a number of causes which can result in runny nose. Some of the causes can be a change of weather, some allergy, infection, flu, stress or cough. Consult a doctor if you have a sore throat along with fever as it may be some viral infection which needs to be treated with medicines. If it’s just a common cold, then you can try having warm things and having proper rest.
How to Stop a Runny Nose from a Cold
While a cold or the flu is often the culprit, a runny nose can also be the result of allergies. There are simple steps you can take to feel better fast. On how to get rid of runny nose from cold, you may use some of the homme remedies we have mentioned above. Am sure they will work for you as you already know the cause of the condition. To add on that you may do the following:
Get plenty of rest
When you’re not feeling well, it’s crucial to get plenty of sleep so your body can heal. Plus, resting will give you a much-needed break from blowing your nose!
Use the right OTC meds
Non-prescription medications can help ease your symptoms. Although Vicks products can’t cure a runny nose, they can help you feel better until it clears up on its own. Cold medicines will help dry up your nasal passages and help relieve your runny nose. For cold symptoms and runny nose at night, try Nyquil Cold & Flu which can dry up your runny nose and calm your cough so you can get the rest you need.
How to Stop a Runny Nose from Allergies
Having a runny nose can irritate the mucus membrane and create a sneeze in an attempt to clear up. The body’s release of histamine, a chemical found in the body’s cells, causes allergic-like symptoms including runny nose. As an alternative to over-the-counter medications, you can use home remedies to relieve runny nose from allergy and sneezing. Consult with your physician always before trying any new remedy.
Salt Water Solution Irrigation
Irrigate nostrils with a salt water solution. Dissolve 1/2 tsp. of table salt in 8 oz. of warm water. Draw the solution into an eyedropper, and insert the solution into one nostril at a time with your head tilted back. Breathe the solution into the nostril. When finished, blow your nose to remove excess mucus and solution. You may need to do this a few times before you feel relief.
Neti Pot
A neti pot typically has a spout on one end and a handle on the opposite end. According to Mayo Clinic asthma and allergy specialist, fill the neti pot with warm salt water or an over-the-counter saline nasal solution. Then tilt your head over the sink and place the spout of the neti pot in the upper nostril. The salt water will flow through your nasal cavity and out the lower nostril.
Oil of Oregano
It has antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory properties vital in fighting sinusitis. The natural oil extracted from wild oregano plants has two key ingredients that are essential in strengthening the immune system. To relieve sinus congestion and runny nose, mix two to three drops of oil with juice and drink it daily until the symptoms subside.
Diet
Monitoring what you consume can help to alleviate runny nose from allergies. Drink plenty of water to thin the nasal mucus. Avoid milk, wheat and saturated fats, which tend to produce more mucus and inflammation. Also, avoid foods that have histamines including cheese, yogurt, dried fruits, processed meats, spinach, tomatoes and bread with a high amount of yeast. Instead, include foods that are high in vitamin C and E such as oranges and almonds. These foods are powerful antioxidants against free radicals that cause runny nose and sneezing.
How to Get Rid of a Runny Nose at School, Class
There are different treatments ranging from the best medicines for runny nose, home remedies and use of natural ingredients depending on the causes of the condition. While in school, there are numerous best ways you can help yourself from this problem.
Best Medicine for Runny Nose
- Postnasal drip caused by bacterial infection is best treated using antibiotics. Colds are caused by virus and cannot respond to antibiotics. In most immune system fights viral infections on its own and what you have to do is to work on mechanisms that improves it such as taking more fluids, balanced diet and enough rest.
- Decongestants are suitable for clearing a stuffy nose caused by viral infection and sinusitis. They help relieving the inflamed membranes that causes blockage. Decongestants are available over the counter and can be obtained under prescription by the doctor.
- Antihistamines, nasal sprays and steroid medications are best for a runny nose caused by allergies. Visit your doctor to get advised for the best ones.
- Mucus-thinning medicines can also help in the removal of thick stuck mucus in the passages. This helps in preventing the blockage of Eustachian tubes of the ears and sinus that can result to more infections.
How to Stop a Runny Nose without Medicine
Self-help mechanisms can also be used to stop postnasal drip. They include the following:
- Keep drinking more warm water. This helps in keeping mucus thin to prevent blockages of other nasal passages and more infections.
- For infants, use a soft rubber suction bulb to help in the removal of secretions.
- Distance yourself from common irritants such as cigarette smoke and dramatic temperature changes.
- Cover your pillow and mattresses with dust mite proof to avoid particles getting into your nose.
- Often wash your beddings including pillows and sheets in hot water.
- Keep dusting and vacuuming your environs regularly.
- Consider using HEPA air filters in your home.
More references
- Runny nose: http://www.medicinenet.com/runny_nose/symptoms.htm
- Guide to cold medicine for adults: http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-medicines-adults#1
- How to stop a runny nose: http://www.coldeeze.com/stop-runny-nose/
- Get rid of runny nose fast: http://lethow.com/health/get-rid-of-a-runny-nose-fast/
- Home remedies for runny nose: http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-runny-nose.html