Runny nose: causes and home remedies that help

A runny nose can have various causes. In most cases, however, these are harmless. You can find out here what can cause a runny nose and what home remedies can help.

A runny nose is always referred to when an unusually large amount of secretion comes out of the nose. According to the medical portal Onmeda, the liquid consists of water, salts, mucilage and proteins. Most of the time the secretion is rather watery and clear. In connection with illnesses, it can also be yellow or green in color and thick.

Runny nose is when the discharge is thin and watery and the nose runs like water. Itching is often an additional symptom. Runny nose can occur with a cold and with an allergy.

Runny nose: It can be caused by these diseases

A runny nose can have various reasons. According to Onmeda, a runny nose is one of the typical symptoms:

• a cold with a runny nose
• Polyps in the nose
• Sinusitis
• Allergies (e.g. to dust, animal hair, food) or hay fever

In these cases, the nose produces increased mucus to get rid of foreign bodies, irritants or pathogens.

If, in addition to the runny nose, you are also struggling with severe headaches, chills and fever and the symptoms do not improve over several days, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Other causes of a runny nose

Sometimes your nose starts to run even when you don’t have a cold or illness, explains the health portal Onmeda. This is facilitated by:

• intensive sport
• spicy or hot food
• Cold or the rapid change from cold to warm

In such situations, the mucous membranes of the nose and paranasal sinuses are particularly supplied with blood, which causes the nose to run. After just a few minutes and without many aids, this situation is over again.

As you get older, it can happen more often that more fluid comes out of the nose. This is because the blood vessels in the nose dilate, causing the mucous membranes to swell and secrete secretions.

Runny nose: These home remedies help

In most cases, a runny nose does not require (medical) treatment. However, if it occurs in connection with allergies or a cold, you can use various home remedies. Please note that the tips are not intended to stop the discharge. In the event of illness, the excretion of secretions should be supported so that the body can get rid of viruses and bacteria.

• Inhale: You can add chamomile flowers or essential oils to warm water to enhance the effect of the water vapor. When inhaled, the warm, moist air thins the mucus and helps to remove pathogens.

• Salt water: You can rinse your nose several times a day with warm salt water and a nasal douche from the pharmacy. This removes pathogens and moistens the mucous membranes. It is also advisable to gargle with salt water – especially if your runny nose is caused by allergies. Another option is to inhale with salt water.

• You can apply diluted eucalyptus oil to your upper lip or drip it onto a tissue. The tried and tested home remedy has an anti-irritant and decongestant effect on the mucous membranes. You can also make a cold bath with eucalyptus.

• Thyme has antibacterial and antiviral effects. You can pick the leaves and chew on them or use them to make tea. The essential vapors cause the mucous membranes to swell and the sinuses become clear again.

General tips against a runny nose

These general tips also help with a runny nose:

• Avoid causing additional irritation to your nose. These include chemicals, sharp smells and also things that you may be allergic to.

• Drink a lot so that the secretions can drain away more quickly and your body is freed from viruses and bacteria.

• Garlic, onions, ginger and chili can also stimulate blood circulation and help the body remove mucus more quickly.

• Strengthen your immune system with exercise in the fresh air, a balanced diet and enough time to relax.

• Place an extra pillow under your head when sleeping. This will make it easier for you to breathe and allow mucus to flow out more easily.