Summary about Disease
Rhinorrhea, commonly known as a runny nose, is the drainage of mucus from the nasal passages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, allergies, and irritants. While often a minor inconvenience, it can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Symptoms
The primary symptom is nasal discharge, which can range from clear and watery to thick and discolored (yellow or green). Other symptoms may include:
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Cough
Sore throat
Headache
Facial pressure
Itchy or watery eyes
Causes
Common causes of rhinorrhea include:
Viral infections: Common cold, influenza (flu), sinusitis
Allergies: Seasonal allergies (hay fever), pet allergies, dust allergies
Irritants: Smoke, pollution, perfumes, cold air
Non-allergic rhinitis: Vasomotor rhinitis, gustatory rhinitis
Structural issues: Nasal polyps, deviated septum
Other: Crying, pregnancy, certain medications
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Some common medications include:
Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine (over-the-counter) – to reduce nasal congestion.
Antihistamines: Loratadine, cetirizine, diphenhydramine (over-the-counter) – to relieve allergy symptoms.
Nasal corticosteroids: Fluticasone, mometasone (over-the-counter or prescription) – to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Saline nasal sprays: To help loosen mucus and clear nasal passages.
Pain relievers: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen (over-the-counter) – to alleviate associated headache or facial pain.
Antibiotics: Only if a bacterial infection is present (prescribed by a doctor).
Is Communicable
Whether rhinorrhea is communicable depends on the underlying cause. If it's caused by a viral infection like the common cold or flu, it is highly contagious. Allergic rhinitis and irritant-induced rhinorrhea are not communicable.
Precautions
To prevent the spread of rhinorrhea caused by infectious agents:
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid touching your face, especially your nose and mouth.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
Avoid close contact with others who are sick.
Use tissues and dispose of them properly. For non-infectious causes:
Avoid known allergens or irritants.
Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of rhinorrhea depends on the cause:
Common cold: Typically lasts 7-10 days.
Flu: Can last 1-2 weeks.
Allergies: Can last for weeks or months, depending on the allergen exposure.
Irritant-induced: Usually resolves quickly once the irritant is removed.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves:
Physical examination: Doctor will examine your nose, throat, and ears.
Medical history: Doctor will ask about your symptoms, allergies, and any underlying medical conditions.
Allergy testing: Skin prick test or blood test to identify allergens.
Nasal endoscopy: In some cases, a scope may be used to examine the nasal passages.
Imaging studies: Rarely, X-rays or CT scans may be ordered to rule out structural problems or sinusitis.
Timeline of Symptoms
9. Timeline of symptoms
Viral infection (common cold): Initial symptoms may include sore throat, followed by rhinorrhea, congestion, and cough. Symptoms typically peak within 2-3 days and gradually improve over 7-10 days.
Allergies: Symptoms usually appear shortly after exposure to an allergen and may persist as long as exposure continues. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion.
Important Considerations
Persistent or severe rhinorrhea may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Consult a doctor if you experience any of the following: high fever, severe headache, facial pain, green or yellow nasal discharge for more than 10 days, or difficulty breathing.
Self-treating with over-the-counter medications may mask underlying problems.
Infants and young children with rhinorrhea should be evaluated by a doctor, as they are more susceptible to complications.