How to Stop a Runny Nose: Remedies by Cause

01Causes

Common causes of a runny nose

• Common cold and other viral infections.
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever, dust mites, pets).
• Cold air, sometimes called “skier’s nose”.
• Spicy food (gustatory rhinitis).
• Irritants: smoke, perfume, pollution.
• Non-allergic or vasomotor rhinitis.
• Overuse of decongestant sprays.
• For a nose that runs constantly, see why is my nose always runny.

02Quick

Quick home remedies

• Blow gently, one nostril at a time.
• Saline spray or rinse to wash away mucus and allergens.
• Steam: a warm shower or bowl of hot water (take care with children).
• Warm drinks and fluids.
• Rest with the head raised at night.
• Use soft tissues and moisturise the skin around the nose to prevent soreness.
• Avoid triggers such as smoke and strong smells.

03Cold

Stopping a runny nose from a cold

Colds are caused by viruses and get better on their own, usually within a week or two. The NHS recommends rest, plenty of fluids and over-the-counter remedies to ease symptoms. Antihistamines alone have only a small effect on cold symptoms in adults in the first days and are not effective in children. Combination products containing antihistamines and decongestants may help some adults but can cause drowsiness or other side effects. A Cochrane review found that ipratropium bromide nasal spray may reduce the amount of runny nose, though it can cause nasal dryness and nosebleeds. Antibiotics do not help colds.

04Allergy

Stopping a runny nose from allergies

• Non-drowsy antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, reduce sneezing and runny nose.
• Steroid nasal sprays are very effective for ongoing symptoms and work best when used daily.
• Saline rinses clear allergens from the nose.
• Reduce exposure: keep windows closed on high pollen days, shower after being outside, wash bedding regularly.
• The NHS describes these as the main treatments for allergic rhinitis.

05Other

Runny nose from cold air or spicy food

In cold air, the nose produces more fluid to warm and humidify the air, and condensation adds to the drip. This is harmless; covering the nose with a scarf helps. Spicy food can trigger a reflex that causes a watery nose. Both types are forms of non-allergic rhinitis. If they bother you, a doctor may suggest ipratropium nasal spray before exposure. More detail is in our guide to vasomotor rhinitis.

06Night

Stopping a runny nose at night

• Raise the head of the bed or use an extra pillow.
• Use a saline spray before bed.
• Take an antihistamine in the evening if allergies are the cause.
• Keep the bedroom free of dust and pets if you are allergic.
• Use a humidifier if the air is dry, keeping it clean.

07Children

Runny nose in children

Young children often have several colds a year. Saline drops and gentle suction help babies feed and sleep. Cough and cold medicines are not recommended for young children in many countries, and decongestant drops should not be used in babies without advice. Offer fluids and rest. Green or yellow mucus alone does not mean antibiotics are needed; see yellow snot.

08Avoid

What not to do

• Do not use decongestant nasal sprays for more than five to seven days.
• Do not use antibiotics for colds.
• Avoid blowing the nose very hard, which can push mucus into the ears and sinuses.
• Do not give adult cold remedies to young children.

09Cases

Three common situations

• Runny nose and sneezing every spring: daily antihistamine or steroid spray during pollen season.
• Runny nose with a sore throat and mild fever: likely a cold; rest, fluids and saline.
• Watery nose every time you eat spicy food: harmless; ask a doctor about ipratropium if it bothers you.

10Products

Choosing products at the pharmacy

• Saline sprays and rinses: safe for most people and can be used often.
• Antihistamine tablets: best for allergies; older types cause drowsiness.
• Steroid nasal sprays: for allergic or non-allergic rhinitis lasting more than a few days; take a few days to work fully.
• Ipratropium nasal spray: reduces watery discharge; available on prescription or from pharmacies in some countries.
• Decongestant sprays: for a blocked rather than runny nose, and only for a few days.
• Ask a pharmacist if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, glaucoma, prostate problems or take other medicines.

11Summary

Key points to remember

• The cause determines the best treatment.
• Saline, steam and fluids help colds.
• Antihistamines and steroid sprays help allergies.
• See a doctor for one-sided, bloody or long-lasting symptoms.