IE 10 or 11 may display this page improperly. Please upgrade to Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Firefox.
symptom-banner
what-is-a-runny-nose

What is a runny nose?

A runny nose is never any fun, especially when it comes with a cold or allergies. It can interrupt your daily life, making you reach for the tissue box every few minutes. But what is a runny nose exactly? A runny nose is a nasal discharge of mucus. Your doctor might use the term “rhinorrhea” to diagnose the runny nose. “Rhino” is a Greek prefix meaning “nose,” and “–rrhea” means “flow” or “discharge.”

What causes a runny nose?

A runny nose is the result of excess nasal mucus production, leading to watery nasal secretions that discharge from the nostrils or drip down into the throat. While a cold or the flu is often the culprit, a runny nose can also be the result of allergies.

how-can-i-treat-a-runny-nose

How can I treat a runny nose?

The good news is a runny nose will usually clear up on its own. Until then, there are simple steps you can take to relieve your symptoms:

- Get plenty of rest: When you’re not feeling well, it’s crucial to get plenty of sleep so your body can heal. Plus, resting will give you a much-needed break from blowing your nose!

- Drink more fluids: Sipping lots of water and clear chicken broth will help thin your mucus and allow it to drain faster from your nose and sinuses. Drinking hot tea or milk can also have a soothing, warming effect.

- Use a saline nasal spray or drops: Using a gentle saline nasal spray or drops three to four times a day can help stop a runny nose and make it easier to breathe. The saline solution will help soothe the mucous membranes inside the nose.

- Take an over-the-counter medication: Non-prescription medications can help ease your symptoms. Although Vicks products won’t cure a runny nose, they can help you feel better. NyQuil COMPLETE reduces swelling of nasal passages to relieve your runny nose due to cold and other cold & flu symptoms.

View Sources

connect



browse

by product

      by symptom

        help & support

        • Contact Us
        • For ingredients and more, Select a product

        bbb-logo