Isn't it really frustrating when you have a runny nose? Wearing a mask is uncomfortable, and it interferes with your daily activities. However, before blindly trying to stop the runny nose, it is important to first identify the cause.
This is because the methods of dealing with it are completely different depending on whether it is due to a cold, rhinitis, or a dry environment. In this article, I will identify the causes of a runny nose and tell you how to stop it for each situation.
Causes of a runny nose: First distinguishing whether it is a cold or rhinitis
A cold is an inflammatory response caused by a virus. Initially, there is a clear runny nose, which becomes thicker over time, accompanied by fever, cough, and sore throat.
allergic rhinitisIt is an immune response to specific substances, characterized by recurring sneezing and nasal itching accompanied by a runny nose. It shows a pattern where symptoms worsen with specific seasons or exposure to irritants.
Sinusitis is a condition in which inflammation occurs in the sinuses surrounding the nose. It is characterized by persistent yellowish nasal discharge accompanied by nasal congestion, facial pain, and postnasal drip (a symptom where mucus flows down the back of the throat). Additionally, a runny nose occurs when the nasal mucosa is irritated by dry indoor environments or seasonal changes, which is the body's natural defense mechanism.
How to identify the cause of a runny nose based on its color
| nasal discharge color | Features and meaning |
|---|---|
| clear color | Secretion caused by nerve reactions or temperature changes. It could be an early sign of rhinitis or a cold. |
| White or slightly sticky | It is a sign that a cold is in progress or that rhinitis is worsening. If accompanied by fever or coughing, it is highly likely to be a cold. |
| yellow or green | A bacterial infection or acute inflammation may be in progress. It can manifest as sinusitis or late-stage cold symptoms. |
| Bloody nasal discharge | The nasal mucosa is damaged or bleeding. If this persists, you must consult a medical professional. |
The color of nasal discharge carries signals from the body. Of course, you cannot completely diagnose a condition based on color alone, but considering its duration and accompanying symptoms together helps in guessing the cause.
Colds usually improve within 1 to 2 weeks, but rhinitis symptoms recur chronically. DurationIt also plays an important role in distinguishing.
Preventing and Alleviating Runny Noses Through Environmental Management
Regardless of the cause, controlling indoor humidity helps relieve a runny nose. If the humidity is maintained at around 40~60% It can prevent the nasal mucosa from drying out.
It is also advisable to avoid cold air and cold water. Temperature changes irritate the nasal mucosa and stimulate runny nose secretion. Please use lukewarm water when washing your face after going out. Spicy or irritating foods can also temporarily increase runny nose secretion, so it is best to avoid them when symptoms are severe.
A runny nose is our body's defense mechanism. Rather than just trying to stop it, it is more effective to address the cause and adjust the environment.
Acupressure and Immediate Relief Methods
When you have a bad runny nose Influence bloodAcupressure on the concave area between the outer corner of the eye and the nose can be helpful. Gently pressing for 1 to 2 minutes can relieve nasal congestion or runny nose.
Another method is vomer stimulation(Stimulating the center of the forehead) If you gently rub it for 20 to 30 seconds, you can soothe irritation of the nasal mucosa. When blowing your nose, you should blow gently one side at a time., If you forcefully loosen both sides at the same time, it can lead to otitis media.
When is medical treatment necessary?
If a runny nose persists for more than 10 days or If accompanied by a high fever of 38.5℃ or higher, it is advisable to seek medical attention. At this level, it could be a condition beyond the scope of a common cold.
If you experience persistent yellow or green purulent nasal discharge, facial pain, or severe postnasal drip, it may be sinusitis, so you need to consult a medical professional. If you have young children, please seek professional medical attention if the runny nose interferes with their sleep or meals, or if symptoms persist.
Identify the exact cause of your runny nose.
Stopping a runny nose ultimately begins with identifying the cause. If it is a cold, focus on alleviating symptoms as it will improve over time; if it is rhinitis, managing your environment and preparing for the season are important. Check the color, duration, and accompanying symptoms to accurately assess your condition, and then take appropriate action.
If symptoms persist for more than 10 days or are accompanied by a high fever, do not hesitate to visit a hospital. Remember that receiving an accurate diagnosis rather than leaving it untreated leads to a faster recovery.