Rhinorrhea

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Rhinorrhea
Synonyms	Runny nose
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Nasal congestion, sneezing, post-nasal drip
Complications	Sinusitis, otitis media
Onset	Any age
Duration	Acute or chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Allergic rhinitis, common cold, influenza, sinusitis, irritants
Risks	Allergies, upper respiratory infections
Diagnosis	Physical examination, medical history
Differential diagnosis	Allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, sinusitis
Prevention	Avoidance of known allergens, good hygiene practices
Treatment	Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays
Medication	Antihistamines, decongestants
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Very common
Deaths	N/A

Rhinorrhea, more commonly referred to as a runny nose, is an excess drainage produced by nasal and adjacent tissues and blood vessels in the nose. This drainage can range from a clear fluid to thick mucus and can run out of your nose, down the back of your throat or both.

Rhinorrhea nasal congestion

Causes

• The most common causes of rhinorrhea include:
• Common cold: This viral infection of your upper respiratory tract is the most common cause of a runny nose.
• Allergies: Many people have rhinorrhea when they're exposed to common allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, or mold.
• Sinusitis: This inflammation of the sinuses often follows a cold and can cause postnasal drip.
• Flu (Influenza): Rhinorrhea is a common symptom of the flu.

Symptoms

In addition to a runny nose, rhinorrhea may be accompanied by sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, sinus pressure, and sore throat.

Treatment

Treatment for rhinorrhea depends on its cause. For a runny nose caused by a virus, rest, warm liquids, and over-the-counter cold remedies can help. If an allergy is causing rhinorrhea, antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, or desensitization therapy (allergy shots) may be recommended.

Prevention

Prevention strategies can include hand hygiene to prevent infection, avoiding allergens, and using a humidifier to keep nasal and throat passages moist.

See Also

• Common cold
• Allergies
• Sinusitis
• Influenza

References

• "Rhinorrhea: Causalities and Treatment Strategies". National Center for Biotechnology Information.
• "Runny nose". Mayo Clinic.
• "Rhinorrhea". American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

External Links

Rhinorrhea - MedlinePlus Rhinorrhea - American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology