Many young children always seem to have a runny nose, and moms are often there with tissues to keep things under control. But as an adult, a constant runny nose can be more than just an annoyance—it can be embarrassing. If you’re constantly reaching for tissues, you may be dealing with a condition called rhinorrhea. Here’s a closer look at what causes it.
What Is Rhinorrhea?
Rhinorrhea is the medical term for a runny nose, which occurs when there is excessive mucus production in the nasal passages. It’s a common condition, but it can be frustrating if it becomes persistent. Rhinorrhea can be caused by various factors, including infections, allergies, irritants, and structural issues in the nasal passages.
Unlike nasal congestion, which refers to a blocked nose making it difficult to breathe, rhinorrhea involves clear or watery mucus that often drips from the nose or flows down the back of the throat, leading to post-nasal drip.
It’s important to distinguish between occasional nasal discharge (like with a cold) and persistent rhinorrhea, which can last for weeks or even months. While a runny nose is often temporary, rhinorrhea may signal an underlying condition that requires treatment.
Common Causes of Rhinorrhea
Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common causes of rhinorrhea. When you’re exposed to an allergen, such as pollen, pet dander, dust, or mold, your immune system releases histamine to protect your body. This can cause the nasal passages to become inflamed, leading to a watery, runny nose. Other common allergy symptoms include:
- Itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Scratchy throat
Although allergies are often seasonal, they can occur year-round if you’re exposed to indoor allergens. Even individuals who have never had allergies before can develop them later in life, so it’s important to remain aware of any new symptoms.
Colds and the Flu
A runny nose is one of the hallmark symptoms of both the common cold and the flu. Viruses that cause upper respiratory infections trigger inflammation in the nasal passages, leading to the production of mucus. Initially, the mucus tends to be clear, but it may become thicker and change color as the body fights the infection. While rhinorrhea typically resolves after a week or two, other symptoms, such as fatigue, fever, and sore throat, often accompany it.
Non-Allergic Rhinitis
Non-allergic rhinitis occurs when the lining of the nose becomes inflamed due to factors other than allergens. The triggers for non-allergic rhinitis can include:
- Environmental irritants like smoke, perfumes, strong odors, pollution, or chemicals
- Changes in weather (such as cold air or sudden temperature fluctuations)
- Certain medications, including nasal decongestant sprays (when used too frequently)
- Spicy foods, stress, or even hormonal changes
The primary difference between non-allergic rhinitis and allergic rhinitis is that the symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis are not triggered by an allergic reaction.
Less Common Causes of Rhinorrhea
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis is an ongoing inflammation of the sinuses that can last for several months. It often causes a persistent runny nose along with other symptoms like facial pain, pressure, and nasal congestion. When sinus passages are blocked or inflamed, mucus can build up, resulting in a runny nose that doesn’t go away. This condition may require a more extensive treatment plan, such as prescription medications, nasal irrigation, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths that develop in the nasal passages or sinuses. These growths are often associated with conditions like chronic sinusitis, asthma, or allergies. Polyps can block airflow and lead to an increase in mucus production, causing a constant runny nose. If polyps are large enough, they may need to be surgically removed.
Enlarged Adenoids (Mainly in Children)
In children, enlarged adenoids—glands located in the upper part of the throat—can lead to chronic rhinorrhea. Although less common in adults, large adenoids can interfere with the flow of mucus, causing nasal discharge that may be mistaken for allergies or a sinus infection. In children, it’s typically accompanied by other symptoms like snoring or difficulty breathing through the nose.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak (CSF Leak)
A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a rare but serious condition that can cause clear fluid to leak from the nose after a head injury, sinus surgery, or as a result of a spinal condition. This condition usually leads to fluid draining from only one side of the nose, and the fluid may have a salty or metallic taste. A CSF leak is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
When to Contact an ENT Specialist
While rhinorrhea is often harmless, if you have a persistent runny nose or it’s accompanied by other troubling symptoms, such as bloody mucus, fever, facial pain, or foul-smelling discharge, it’s important to see a healthcare professional. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist like ENT Surgical Consultants can help identify the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Tests such as allergy screenings, nasal cultures, or imaging (e.g., CT scan) may be needed to determine the source of the problem. In some cases, rhinorrhea can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications like antihistamines or decongestants, or even nasal irrigation.
Treatments for Rhinorrhea
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and reduce irritation.
- Steam inhalation: Breathing in steam from a bowl of hot water can soothe the nasal passages.
- Nasal sprays: Over-the-counter saline nasal sprays can help clear the sinuses and keep the nasal passages moist.
- Medications: Depending on the cause, your doctor may recommend antihistamines (for allergies), nasal decongestants (for congestion), or nasal steroid sprays (for inflammation).
- Avoiding triggers: If you have allergies or non-allergic rhinitis, try to identify and avoid the irritants that are causing your symptoms.
Rhinorrhea Treatment in Joliet, New Lenox, and Morris, Illinois.
Rhinorrhea may seem like a small problem, but if left untreated, it can significantly impact your quality of life. If you find that your runny nose is persistent, especially with additional symptoms like pain, a fever, or unusual mucus color, don’t hesitate to contact ENT Surgical Consultants at 815-725-1191.
With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can address the root cause and find relief from your symptoms.
