Postnasal drip
The cause of runny nose and postnasal drainage can vary. Postnasal drip can be caused by allergies or hay fever, and treatments for this condition vary. Antihistamine medicines are a common treatment for allergic rhinitis, and can be taken in the form of nasal sprays or tablets. Your doctor can also prescribe a medication known as a leukotriene receptor antagonist, which may be beneficial for you if you have allergy symptoms.
Chronic postnasal drip may be caused by a variety of causes, including overactive nerves in the back of the nose and throat. Some conditions cause mucus to build up in the back of the throat, and in the worst case scenario, it can become chronic. However, not all postnasal drip is caused by overactive nerves. Some patients have difficulty clearing the mucus, and some sufferers have a constant urge to cough.
Nasal congestion
The cause of nasal congestion is a variety of things, including allergies and infection. Nasal congestion can also be triggered by irritants such as pollen and car exhaust. Fortunately, there are some natural remedies for nasal congestion and runny nose. In some cases, it can even be a symptom of a tumor. In such a case, nasal irrigation may help. Read on to find out more about treatment options for this condition.
Most women experience some level of rhinitis during pregnancy. It is called vasomotor rhinitis and affects 20 percent of pregnant women. Nasal secretions may be thick or thin, and the condition may be accompanied by sneezing or nasal itching. Nonprescription nasal products are an alternative, and do not carry the same precautions as prescription medications. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using any type of nasal spray.
Cold
A cold is a common respiratory illness with symptoms that range from coughing to a runny nose. The discharge from the nose may be yellow, green, or white in color. This is perfectly normal and does not indicate that an antibiotic is required. The cough may last from 10 to 14 days but should subside by the time the cold has run its course. The cough itself is caused by postnasal drip and can last for several days even after the cold is gone.
The cold air can lead to a runny nose. The reason it is runny is similar to the process of condensation. While the air may be cold, your body warms it up by breathing in warm air and exhaling cool, moist air. The extra mucus is produced to keep the nasal passages warm and protect the lungs from the cold. There are several home remedies for a cold runny nose.
Antihistamines
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you may want to consider using over-the-counter antihistamines. These medications reduce the symptoms of allergies by suppressing the cough, clearing the nasal passages, and relieving runny nose. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine, which causes watery, itchy eyes and sneezing. However, they can also build up a resistance over time, which varies from person to person.
While antihistamines can be effective at treating allergies, the right dosage is crucial. The most effective dose of antihistamines is taken before symptoms start. In fact, taking an antihistamine before symptoms develop is the best way to avoid multiple doses later. However, many patients report that antihistamines fail to work as prescribed, despite their best efforts. This is because they fail to take an early dose, which builds up blood levels that are unreliable.
Home remedies
The best home remedies for runny nose include drinking more fluids. Drinking plenty of water keeps the mucus produced in your sinuses thin and easy to expel. Thicker mucus can cause congestion in your nostrils. Foods high in water content include strawberries, peaches, cucumbers, tomatoes, and leafy greens. Drinking a glass of water three to four times daily will help relieve a runny nose.
If you are prone to frequent episodes of runny nose, you can try using a saltwater compress. Salt water helps thin mucus and clear congestion in the sinuses. To create a salt water compress, take half a teaspoon of table salt and mix it with two cups of warm water. To apply the solution, you should put a drop into each nostril. Then, blow your nose to clear the excess solution. Repeat several times a day and as often as necessary.