How to Stop a Runny Nose: 4 Easy Tips

there are lots of great tips to stop a runny nose

Feeling a case of the sniffles coming on? Try one of our tips and tricks the next time you’re dealing with a runny nose!

The fall and winter months often mean it’s time to stock up on tissues and brace yourself for some sniffling. Whether it’s simply an allergy or a sinus issue, symptoms like a runny nose can be pretty irritating to deal with.

Since it’s 2020 many of us automatically assume that extra congestion is actually COVID-19. While congestion and a runny nose are two symptoms of coronavirus, they’re not the main things to look for. So ask your doctor if there’s any doubt that your winter sniffles might be cause for concern.

But whatever the cause, there are some pretty quick fixes you can use at home! You might not even have to go to the drug store to stock up on meds if you already have a great herbal remedy in your kitchen. So be sure to share your tips on how to stop a runny nose on your favorite family app!  

Why Do I Have a Runny Nose?

Most of the time, when you think of a runny nose, you automatically assume you’ve got a common cold. But there are actually several different reasons why you need a few extra boxes of Kleenex. Here are a few common causes.

  • Common Cold – Most people will experience a sore nose, extra mucus, and cough when they’re dealing with a cold, along with some other symptoms. These can include everything from sneezing, congestion, and a sore throat to body aches and headaches.
  • Sinusitis – While sinusitis can seem like a cold, it’s actually a sinus infection. There may be other symptoms that go alongside a runny nose in this case, like a headache or sore throat. Make sure you get plenty of rest so you can feel better.
  • Rhinitis – Allergies are often the source of rhinitis, but even the non-allergic version can lead to a runny nose and sneezing. This usually happens during weather or pressure changes. But even offensive odors like perfume and smoke might leave your nose running. Fortunately, these symptoms often stop when external conditions change. So hang in there!

4 Tips to Stop a Runny Nose Fast

child with a runny nose

If you’re experiencing a runny nose, there are a number of tricks you can try to make it better. Share your own ideas with others on FamilyApp!  

1. Drink Fluids

No matter the root cause, you need liquids to clean out your system. Water and hot tea can work wonders to relieve nasal congestion and thin out mucus for better breathing. Try some warm water with honey and lemon to open up your throat, and be sure to limit dehydrating drinks like coffee and alcohol!

2. Try Some Steam

Facial steam can be ideal for improving your sinuses! Simply heat water over the stove so that it steams. Cover your head with a towel and take deep breaths of the steam, being careful not to burn yourself. For something extra-therapeutic and calming, add garden herbs or essential oils like peppermint, rosemary, lavender, or sage!

3. Eat Spicy Foods

Sometimes getting a little nasal relief is as simple as eating something spicy! Foods that contain cayenne pepper, horseradish, and ginger can effectively dilate the nasal passages and lead to a lessening of symptoms. They work as an easy decongestant that you probably have in your kitchen!

4. Use an Over-the-Counter Remedy

While cough syrup or an antihistamine can help with the common cold, nasal sprays can also help. Be sure to read the instructions on the package to use this remedy effectively. Share your own remedies on your favorite family app with other users!

During cold and flu season there’s sure to be a lot of sneezing going on. But that doesn’t mean that the runny nose you have is related to a cold! So start looking for solutions for solving this issue whether you head to your garden or the local drugstore.

Do you have any tips for dealing with a sore nose, mucus, or any type of nasal congestion? Share them with other readers in our comments! It can be a pain to deal with this symptom of illness, but knowing the solution is half the battle!  

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