A runny nose is a natural occurrence, one that may be the first sign you have a cold or a sign of rhinitis. For some people, their runny nose persists, causing them to suffer from chronic inflammation and irritation that they need help to treat.
Causes of runny nose, or rhinorrhea, can range from eating spicy foods to breathing in pollen. When the issue persists, it’s time to look more closely at the potential causes and seek treatment.
Potential Causes of Chronic Runny Nose
There are several potential reasons a nose will keep running. Working with the team at Del Rey, MD, can help you identify the root cause of your issue and find the right solution.
Allergens
Repeated exposure to allergens, like pet dander, pollen, and dust, can cause your nose to run almost incessantly. Environmental triggers are the leading cause of chronic runny nose, and you may find that these symptoms abate after you change locations or the seasons shift.
Saline sprays, prescription anticholinergic nasal sprays, and possibly corticosteroid nasal sprays may be able to help.
Sinusitis
Chronic inflammation of the sinuses can lead to sinusitis, which may lead to facial pain and tenderness, headaches, and a runny nose. If over-the-counter remedies aren’t effective, reaching out to an ENT for professional diagnosis and treatment is the best way to find long-lasting relief.
A Cold
The common cold can cause the nose to run more than usual. Because your immune system responds by stimulating mucus production to eliminate the pathogens, you are more likely to have a runny nose while you’re sick.
The Flu
Just as with a cold, the flu can cause chronic runny nose. Influenza can also cause an upper respiratory tract infection or sinus infection, which will increase mucus production.
Nasal Polyps
Polyps are painless, non-cancerous growths that appear on the inside of the nostrils or nasal passages. They are harmless, but they can grow to the point they cause infection and inflammation.
Schedule an ENT Appointment With Del Rey, MD
If you are struggling with a chronic runny nose or nasal congestion, help is available. Del Rey, MD, offers treatment to patients throughout California, including Marina Del Rey, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, and Long Beach, CA. Click here to find your closest location, or contact (310) 823-4444 to schedule an appointment.