Runny Nose Remedy
Rhinorrhea is the medical term for runny nose. A runny nose can be caused by allergies, a cold, environmental factors and airborne chemicals. No matter what the cause of your runny nose, there are many simple things you can do to help alleviate it. If your runny nose has been persistent for several weeks, be sure to contact your doctor for treatment.
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Take an Antihistamine
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A runny nose due to allergies is caused by the release of histamine in your body. If you take an antihistamine, you will prevent your runny nose by blocking the histamine from interfering with tissue in the nose. The main disadvantage of antihistamines is that they cause drowsiness, and so it is not always good to take them during the day. It is best to take antihistamines at nighttime before you go to sleep. You can find over-the-counter antihistamines at drugstores and supermarkets. Never give an antihistamine to a child before speaking with a health-care professional.
A virus is the cause of your runny nose if you have a cold. The blood vessels in the lining of your nose swell from the increased leakage of fluid caused by the cold virus. Air flow becomes obstructed, and your nose begins to run. If you have a cold, an antihistamine will dry up the mucus causing your nose to run.
Blow Your Nose
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Oftentimes blowing your nose will offer the best relief for a runny nose. Gently blow your nose a few times a day with a soft tissue or handkerchief. If you blow your nose too excessively or use a rough tissue or hankie, the outside of your nose can become red and irritated. If your nose does become dry and red, use a little bit of Vaseline on the outside of your nostrils.
Nasal Spray
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You can use nasal spray to remedy your runny nose. Nasal spray flushes the irritants out of the nasal passages by thinning the mucus. It is best to use saline sprays because nasal sprays containing decongestants can be highly addictive. You can purchase quality over-the-counter nasal sprays at drugstores and supermarkets.
You can make your own saline nasal spray at home. Just mix table salt with hot water and use a bulb syringe to place drops in your nostrils.
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