Runny Nose Medicine

A runny nose, also known as rhinorrhea or rhinitis, refers to the production of a significant amount of nasal fluid or discharge. Though runny nose causes a lot of trouble or inconvenience, it is actually a way by which our body tries to get rid of some toxic substances by flushing them out along with nasal fluid. But, the excess mucus produced to expel the harmful particles can sometimes cause the congestion of the nasal cavity.

Runny nose causes
A runny nose can be caused by several factors, though most commonly it is a symptom of either common cold or allergy. If common cold causes runny nose, then it usually lasts for a few weeks. But, allergy can cause runny nose for a considerable length of time, sometimes lasting for more than a month. Allergies that can cause runny nose include hay fever, food allergies, dust mite allergies, latex allergies, etc. Apart from common cold, the non-allergic causes of runny nose include viral or bacterial infection, like influenza and sinusitis. Vasomotor rhinitis is another condition that can lead to a runny nose, mainly due to changes in temperature and humidity and also by strong odor or perfume.

Runny Nose Medicine and Treatment
Most of the times, runny noses do not require any treatment and medicine, as they go away on their own. However, if the congestion caused by the excess mucus production is really serious and causing breathing problems, then some specific medicines would be required to alleviate this condition.

Nasal Decongestant
Decongestant is the most commonly used runny nose medicine to relieve congestion. Both oral decongestants and nasal sprays can be used for this purpose. But, excessive use of nasal decongestant sprays can increase nasal stuffiness instead of relieving it. Examples of nasal decongestant sprays include, oxymetazoline, phenylephrine, xylometazoline, and naphazoline. So, the nasal sprays are basically meant to be used only for a short time period, to get temporary relief.

Antihistamine Medications
If the runny nose is the result of allergic reactions, then antihistamine medications can be helpful. These allergy medications can inhibit the secretion or action of histamine, which is the chemical responsible for producing allergic reactions or symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itching, etc. The commonly used antihistamine medications are diphenhydramine or loratadine. Drowsiness is a common side effect of antihistamine medicines. Moreover, they may not be very effective in easing runny nose, if it is caused by common cold, sinus infections or non-allergic rhinitis. Know more about allergy relief.

Steroids
Steroids are another type of nasal allergy medications. They have anti-inflammatory effects, for which they are used in treating allergic reactions like congestion and inflammation of the nose. Nasal steroids are often used in combination with antihistamine medications. Long term use of steroids can produce side effects like nasal bleeding and nasal crusts, bone thinning, cataracts and an increased susceptibility to infections.

Home Remedies for Runny Nose
Apart from these medicines, you can try some simple home remedies for runny nose. If you are experiencing nasal stuffiness due to excess nasal fluid, then a hot shower or bath can provide considerable relief. Similarly, you can also try steam inhalation, which would promote nasal discharge. To make this home remedy more effective, you can add a little amount of menthol or eucalyptus oil. Herbal tea is one of the most effective natural remedies for runny nose and mild congestion. You make it by boiling a small amount of cayenne pepper, elder berry, mint and yarrow root. Similarly, chamomile tea can also ease hay fever symptoms, including runny nose. Otherwise, you can chew a small piece of ginger, which would warm your body and help to speed up the drainage of nasal fluid.

For allergic rhinitis, the best treatment would be to avoid the allergens, as far as possible. These allergens would be mostly individual specific and vary from person to person. For some they could be dust, pollen or mites, while for others, certain food items like milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, etc. So, identification of the specific allergen is quite important to avoid its exposure and hence runny nose. As far as the runny nose medicines are concerned, it is advisable to consult your physician to know about the various aspects of these medications as well as to know how to use them effectively.