Runny noses and sneezing are typical indicators that often accompany several conditions. While they can be a nuisance, they are your body’s way of responding to irritants and microbes in the respiratory tract. Whether it’s combating a troublesome virus, reacting to an allergen, or resisting environmental irritants, these symptoms are a part of the body’s natural defence system. Understanding why they happen and how to treat them can help make this short-term inconvenience more manageable.
If your symptoms are severe or persistent, or if there is blood-stained nasal discharge or persistent pain, consult a healthcare expert for further assessment.
A runny nose often peaks around 2 to 3 days after the onset of symptoms but can persist for up to a week. It typically begins with clear, watery mucus which tends to thicken as the cold progresses, often acquiring a yellow or green tinge. The colour change is a positive sign, indicating that your immune system is engaged, and your white blood cells are battling the cold virus.
Hola Health’s telehealth services are designed to provide convenient, high-quality, and private medical care, helping you manage sneezing and a runny nose effortlessly from the comfort of your home.
A running nose and sneezing might turn your day into an endless tissue parade, but they’re simply your body’s way of managing things. Just remember, if your symptoms last long or are paired with significant concerns like high fever, it’s wise to seek professional help.
Why am I sneezing, and why is my nose so runny?
Several factors can cause sneezing and runny nose:1. Viral infections:
A range of viruses such as the common cold virus can trigger increased mucus production in the nasal passageways. This can trigger sneezing as your body works to expel the virus.2. Allergies:
Allergens such as pollens, pet dander, or house dust mites can trigger a reaction in your nasal passageways resulting in a runny nose and sneezing.3. Environmental irritants:
Smoke, strong odours, or environmental irritants can aggravate your nasal passages, resulting in sneezing.4. Sinusitis:
Sinus inflammation, often caused by infections or allergies, may lead to a runny nose and sneezing.5. Dry air:
In dry conditions, the nasal passages may dry out and become irritated, triggering irritation of the nasal passageways and sneezing.If your symptoms are severe or persistent, or if there is blood-stained nasal discharge or persistent pain, consult a healthcare expert for further assessment.
Is a runny nose and sneezing a Covid-19 symptom?
A runny nose and sneezing can be symptoms of COVID-19. Other symptoms, such as fever, cough, breathlessness, and loss of taste or smell, are usually also present.How do I stop sneezing and cure a runny nose? 10 At-home remedies
The following home remedies may help with a runny nose and sneezing:- Stay hydrated: Hydration protects the nasal passages from becoming dry and irritated. Keeping hydrated also replaces fluids lost through nasal and sinus discharge.
- Use a humidifier: Dry air can irritate your nasal passages and exacerbate symptoms. A humidifier introduces moisture into the air, soothing and hydrating the nasal passages, and decreasing inflammation, sneezing, and runny nose. The moisture can also assist in softening mucus, making it easier to expel from the nose.
- Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam moisturises the nasal passages, releasing mucus, alleviating nasal and sinus congestion, and improving breathing. Adding eucalyptus or peppermint oil can help to soothe inflamed nasal passageways.
- Nasal irrigation: Use a saline solution to flush allergies, irritants, and mucus from the nasal passages. This procedure can help remove blockages and relieve symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose. Saline solutions also aid in maintaining the moisture balance in the nasal tissues which is essential for avoiding dryness and discomfort.
- Honey and ginger: Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps to retain moisture. It also has modest antimicrobial characteristics that might help relieve a sore throat. Ginger includes chemicals such as gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These characteristics help decrease inflammation in the nasal passages, which may alleviate sneezing and congestion.
- Warm compress: Applying a warm compress to your face, especially the nose and forehead, improves circulation. This can relieve sinus pressure and discomfort while helping remove nasal congestion by releasing mucus. The warmth also relaxes muscles and has a relaxing effect, which reduces the need to sneeze.
- Avoid triggers: avoiding common triggers such as dust, pollen, pet dander, or strong odours can help prevent or reduce symptoms.
- Elevate your head when sleeping: Keeping your head raised while sleeping allows mucus to escape from your nasal passages and sinuses, reducing congestion and preventing a runny nose from intensifying overnight. Gravity helps to keep the nasal passages free, minimising the risk of postnasal drip, which can cause sneezing.
How long should sneezing and runny nose last?
Sneezing and runny nose usually last a few days to a week, depending on the cause. For a common cold, they generally last around a week. For allergies, they may continue if you are exposed to them.A runny nose often peaks around 2 to 3 days after the onset of symptoms but can persist for up to a week. It typically begins with clear, watery mucus which tends to thicken as the cold progresses, often acquiring a yellow or green tinge. The colour change is a positive sign, indicating that your immune system is engaged, and your white blood cells are battling the cold virus.
When to call the doctor?
You should consult a doctor if sneezing and a runny nose persist for more than 10 days (about 1 and a half weeks), especially if accompanied by a high fever, severe headache, facial pain, or thick yellow or green mucus, as these could indicate a bacterial infection. Seek medical attention if you have trouble breathing, chest discomfort, or severe symptoms that interfere with your normal activities. Additionally, if over-the-counter treatments do not work or if you have a history of chronic respiratory issues (such as asthma or allergies), you should see a doctor. Persistent symptoms may also signal an underlying illness that needs medical attention and treatment.Let telehealth with Hola help.
Allow Hola Health to simplify and make the management of sneezing and a runny nose simple and stress-free with our comprehensive telehealth services.- Virtual consultations: Avoid the commute and waiting times. Our medical professionals provide tailored advice, diagnosis, and treatment for your symptoms—all from the comfort of your home.
- Online prescriptions: Receive prescriptions quickly from a registered healthcare provider, without leaving your house. We’ll deliver the medications you need directly to your door, streamlining the management of your symptoms.
- Medical certificates: Need time off due to severe symptoms? Obtain a medical certificate online from AHPRA-registered practitioners in minutes, making it easier to take the necessary time to recover.
- Specialist referrals: Get online referrals to specialists when needed, avoiding unnecessary trips and ensuring you receive expert care to manage your symptoms effectively.
- Online medicine delivery: Arrange for your medications to be delivered directly to your home or choose same-day pharmacy delivery with Hola. Manage your symptoms without the risk of exposure or delays.
Hola Health’s telehealth services are designed to provide convenient, high-quality, and private medical care, helping you manage sneezing and a runny nose effortlessly from the comfort of your home.
A running nose and sneezing might turn your day into an endless tissue parade, but they’re simply your body’s way of managing things. Just remember, if your symptoms last long or are paired with significant concerns like high fever, it’s wise to seek professional help.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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