This fluid can vary from thick to thin, clear to opaque, and intermittent to constant.
A runny nose is a typical symptom of thecommon cold.
Adults experience an average of two to three colds a year (and children even more frequently).
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The color does not mean you have an infection that requires antibiotics.
Rhinitis is often due toallergies(sometimes called hay fever).
It’s important to watch for other COVID-19 symptoms, and not just assume it’s a cold.
Nasal spraysmay makecongestion worse if overused.
Don’t use over-the-counter nasal sprays for more than three days unless directed by your healthcare provider.
Are There Tests to Diagnose the Cause of Sniffles?
A healthcare provider will conduct a physical exam and check the throat, nose, ears, and airways.
Colds or allergies commonly cause nasal discharge and congestion.
OTC medications may help nasal congestion but should be taken as directed and with caution.
Do not give OTC medication to children without checking with their healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Stanford Medicine Children’s Health.Chronic rhinorrhea (runny nose).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Common cold.
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing.
MedlinePlus.Stuffy or runny nose adult.
Houston Methodist.How long does rebound congestion last?
2022;14(10):e30261.
doi:10.7759/cureus.30261
American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology.Churg-Strauss syndrome.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
Nemours KidsHealth.Is it a cold, the flu, an RSV infection, or COVID-19?
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Seasonal allergies.
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Do you have the winter sniffles?
5 ways you’re able to manage indoor winter allergies.
