Almost everyone has had a runny nose at some time in their lives. This symptom can have a wide range of origins and manifestations. A runny nose, for example, may last only a few minutes in some people and linger all day in others. The color of the nasal discharge might also change. In rare circumstances, you may have a consistent or chronic runny nose with clear fluid.
Although nobody pays heed to the problem of runny noses, they can prove to be symptoms of other health issues. It is thus recommended to see an ENT specialist in Mumbai or wherever you are situated in case of an abnormal runny nose.
What is the reason for a clear runny nose?
A runny nose is caused by an increase in nasal mucus production. While a variety of factors can cause a runny nose, it is most commonly caused by inflammation of the tissues within your nose. It is referred to as rhinitis.
Extra fluid can leak from the nose, down the back of the throat (postnasal drip), or both. While nasal mucus can be a range of hues, rhinorrhea is the medical name for a runny nose with thin, clear fluid.
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Allergies
Allergy are a typical cause of a perpetually runny nose. Allergies that affect your nose are referred to as allergic rhinitis or hay fever. In allergic rhinitis, your immune system overreacts toward something seemingly innocuous, such as pollen, mold, or pet dander. It causes nasal channel irritation and increased mucus production.
Allergic rhinitis causes nasal discharge that is generally thin, runny, and transparent. It might continue as long as a specific allergy trigger, known as an allergen, is present in your surroundings.
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Non-allergic Rhinitis
Non-allergic rhinitis refers to nasal symptoms that occur in the absence of allergens or infection. This illness is thought to occur when blood flow in your nose rises. This might result in edema and increased mucus production.
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Infections caused by viruses
The tissues of your respiratory tract are attacked by viral illnesses such as the common cold and the flu. As a result, your nose creates extra mucus to assist, capture, and wipe out virus particles. It might result in a continuous runny nose filled with clear fluid.
It’s crucial to remember that the appearance and frequency of some symptoms might vary depending on the virus that’s causing the infection. A runny nose, for example, occurs more frequently with the common cold than with the flu. A regular cold might cause a runny nose that lasts 10 to 14 days.
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Rhinitis during pregnancy
Pregnant women may get a runny or stuffy nose without a history of illness, allergies, or other nasal issues. In addition to a runny nose, other symptoms might include nasal congestion and sneezing.
Pregnancy rhinitis is caused by changes in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These changes might result in increased blood flow in the nose, which can cause irritation and excess mucus.
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Polyps in the nose
Nasal polyps are non-cancerous (benign) growths that form in the nasal passageways. They are caused by persistent inflammation in this region and are linked to other illnesses, including allergies and asthma. Chronic inflammation caused by nasal polyps can cause symptoms such as a continuous runny nose.
What can help with a runny nose?
- Use an inhaler or rinse: Saline nasal sprays are accessible over-the-counter (OTC). They can aid in the clearing of your nasal passages.
- Drink enough water: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your nasal mucus thin and easy to clear out of your nose.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can increase moisture in the air and may aid in thinning nasal mucus.
- Avoid triggers: If you know that certain items aggravate your symptoms, try to avoid them.
- Blowing into tissue regularly might help eliminate extra mucus from your nasal passages.
If the consistency of the runny nose doesn’t break, consult a specialist. ENT specialists in Mumbai and other metropolitan cities can help you find relief and aid your discomfort with a runny nose.
When should you see a doctor?
While a runny nose may typically be treated at home, there are certain indications that it is time to see your doctor. These are some examples:
- a runny nose that persists after 10 days
- feverishness
- Fever and mucus that has turned yellow or green, are indications of a bacterial infection.
- nasal discharge that is bloody
- a clear nasal discharge that occurs after a brain injury
Conclusion
A continuous, clear runny nose can be caused by a variety of medical issues. Allergies, infections, and nasal polyps are among the most prevalent reasons. Food, drugs, and hormonal fluctuations are among other things that might cause a persistent, clear runny nose.
The majority of reasons for a persistent clear runny nose may be managed with over-the-counter drugs and home treatments. But consulting an ENT specialist in Mumbai or wherever you live is essential if your symptoms persist for over 10 days or you have other symptoms such as a high fever or bloody nasal discharge. Also, read our other blogs.