A runny nose, or rhinitis, can be a symptom of many conditions, including a cold, the flu, and allergies. Acute rhinitis is a runny nose that developed recently, while chronic rhinitis is a longstanding problem. An acute runny nose caused by a cold often resolves on its own. However, a constantly runny nose may be a symptom of a more serious disease and needs to be evaluated. Our ENT specialists are experts in the evaluation of acute and chronic rhinitis.
What causes a runny nose?
Common colds, another viral illness, or mild seasonal allergies can cause acute rhinitis, a runny nose that lasts only a few days. A runny nose that lasts 3 months or more is considered chronic rhinitis. The causes include:
Allergic rhinitis: Also called hay fever, allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. This reaction triggers inflammation in the nasal passages, leading to increased mucus production and a runny nose.
Nonallergic rhinitis: A runny nose triggered by something other than an allergic reaction may be caused by environmental irritants, changes in weather, certain medications, or fluctuating hormones. This condition often leads to chronic nasal congestion.
Sinusitis: Inflamed sinus cavities can cause a runny nose, facial pain, headache, and nasal congestion. Viral infections often trigger acute sinusitis, while chronic sinusitis may result from persistent inflammation or structural issues.
Deviated septum: If the thin wall between your nasal passages is displaced to one side, it can contribute to chronic nasal drainage. This structural abnormality may impair proper mucus drainage, leading to a persistent runny nose.
Nasal foreign body: In children, a foul-smelling runny nose that predominantly comes from one nostril can be a sign of a foreign body in the nose.
An ENT doctor spends 4 years at college, 4 years at medical school, and then 5 to 7 years after that in a residency program specializing in otolaryngology — head and neck surgery. Our board-certified ENTs pass written and oral exams and participate in continuous education to maintain their certification. When you visit one of our Arizona locations, you can trust you're seeing one of the most qualified specialists in the region and that your care will be second to none.
When To See a Physician
Even though most runny noses are symptoms of a relatively harmless condition and clear up on their own, there are times when you may need to see a doctor. If a runny nose persists and is accompanied by a high fever, sinus pain, and greenish mucus, your immune system likely needs help fighting the underlying cause.
Diagnosing What’s Causing a Runny Nose
An ENT specialist will first discuss your medical history and ask how long you’ve had a runny nose. They’ll also examine the nasal passages, throat, and ears for signs of infection or structural abnormalities.
Other steps they may take include:
Allergy testing: This can include skin prick tests or blood tests to identify specific allergens triggering the symptoms.
Imaging evaluations: In cases of suspected structural abnormalities or chronic sinusitis, your physician may order imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs to provide detailed views of the nasal and sinus cavities.
Nasal endoscopy: Inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the nasal passages enables the physician to get a clearer look at nasal structures and can help identify polyps, tumors, or other obstructions.
Treatment Options for a Runny Nose
Treatments for a chronic runny nose depend on the underlying cause and typically involve a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Treatment options include:
Nasal irrigation: Flushing excess mucus and irritants from the nasal passages using a neti pot or squeeze bottle filled with a saline solution is a simple at-home treatment that can relieve nasal congestion and runny nose symptoms.
Medications: A physician may prescribe various medications to manage runny nose symptoms. These include antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroid sprays.
Immunotherapy: For severe allergic rhinitis, your physician may recommend allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual drops). This treatment gradually desensitizes the immune system to specific allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
Surgery: In cases where structural abnormalities contribute to chronic runny nose, surgery such as septoplasty or functional endoscopic sinus surgery can address the cause.
Being prepared will help you get the most out of your appointment. Please bring a list of medications you're currently taking and any pertinent test results—such as labs or imaging—to your appointment. Additionally, let your provider know of any drug allergies or medical conditions you have or for which you are being treated and if you've had any prior surgical procedures.
Visit Our ENT Specialists
While runny noses are often a minor nuisance, they can significantly impact your quality of life when persistent. By understanding the various causes and available treatment options, individuals can work with their healthcare providers to find effective solutions for managing this common condition. If you experience chronic nasal symptoms, consult an otolaryngologist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.