How To Stop A Runny Nose
Did you wake up this morning with a stuffy, runny nose or with congested sinuses? Are the used tissues starting to pile up everywhere? Whether this occurs on a frequent basis or not, there is no argument – it’s very irritating and makes it exceedingly difficult to focus on anything.
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Having a case of “the runs” can be a symptom of a virus, such as a cold or a flu, or it can be caused by something in the environment that triggers an allergic reaction within your body’s immune system. Many things can potentially fire up your allergies if you’re exposed to it for any length of time. Some of the most common allergens include dust, mold, pet fur, pollen, perfumes, peanuts and many others. Luckily however, there are several easy, tried and true methods you can turn to in order to stop a runny nose, give your sore nose a break and ease the discomfort.
Listed below are some of the most effective ways to stop a runny nose in its tracks.
Buy An OTC Antihistamine
When it comes to a runny nose, taking an antihistamine is probably the quickest and most effective solution of them all. Better yet, they are not expensive and you can find them in the non-drowsy variety as well.
If you suspect that allergies are the culprit behind the seemingly relentless flow of mucus, you may want to consider buying an over-the-counter antihistamine from a pharmacy, labeled under names such as loratadine or cetirizine. These medications will help stop the mucus production and a variety of other allergy symptoms by blocking the production of histamine, a chemical that is released by the immune system in response to allergens.
Stay Well Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help thin out mucus and make it easier to blow your nose. This is especially important in the hot summer months when your body loses more water.
If you’re tired of water or simply not a big water drinker, you can drink hot liquids that contain water instead, such as tea or chicken soup, which can help soothe a sore throat and relieve congestion.
Use Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline nasal sprays can help relieve a runny nose by moisturizing the nasal passages and flushing out mucus. Saline sprays are available over-the-counter at most drug stores, and they are safe to use for both adults and children. To use a saline spray, simply insert the nozzle into your nostril and spray the solution. Repeat this process for the other nostril.
Use A Humidifier
Dry air can irritate the nasal passages and make a runny nose worse. Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air, which can help soothe irritated nasal passages and relieve congestion. If you don’t have a humidifier, you can also try taking a hot shower or using a steam inhalation treatment to help moisten the nasal passages.
Additionally, installing an air purifier in your home can help reduce dust, hairs and other particles in the air that are aggravating your nasal passages.
Try Decongestants
Decongestants are medications that can help relieve congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages. They are available in both pill and nasal spray form, and they are often used to treat colds, flu, and allergies. However, decongestants can have side effects, such as increased heart rate, nervousness, and sleep disturbances, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking these medications.
Rest And Relax
Finally, one of the most effective ways to stop a runny nose is to rest and relax. When you’re feeling sick, your body needs time to heal, and pushing yourself too hard can make your symptoms worse. Make sure you get plenty of rest, and try to reduce your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Additional Tips
In addition to the above methods, there are a few more things you can do to help stop a runny nose:
– Go outside and get some fresh air and sunshine: Getting fresh air and sunshine for just 5 – 10 minutes can have quite a healing effect and do wonders for a runny nose and other allergic symptoms. Don’t overdo it though, as too much ultraviolet exposure can burn and damage your skin.
– Avoid irritants whenever possible: Try to avoid irritants, such as cigarette smoke, pollution, and strong smells, as these can irritate the nasal passages and make a runny nose worse.
– Use a neti pot: If you’re more interested in more traditional methods, you can try using a neti pot, which rinses out the nasal passages with a saline solution. This can help relieve congestion, improve your breathing and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
– Stay away from allergens: As previously mentioned, if you suffer from allergies, try to keep allergens at bay. This may mean staying indoors on high pollen days if you can, using air filters in your home, and keeping your pets off of your furniture. Also, don’t forget to wash your hands regularly, especially after you’ve done cleanup work or touched a furry four legged best friend.
– Get an allergy test: If you’re unsure what is causing your allergy symptoms, getting an allergy test will make it clear. Once you know what triggers your symptoms, relief will be right around the corner.
Final Thoughts
Having a runny nose is a nuisance, no doubt about it. But in usual circumstances, it should clear up on its own within a few days or so.
However, if your symptoms persist or become more severe despite your best efforts, this may be a sign of a more serious illness, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. In this case, it’s important to see a doctor to get checked and tested, as these conditions can become life threatening if left untreated.
