A runny nose caused by a cold, mucus accumulation or an allergic reaction is one of the most common complaints ever. When you have a cold, your nose produces extra mucus to fight germs. In the case of an allergy, the allergens are treated by the nose as germs, and the nose produces additional mucus to flush them out, which causes a runny nose. Though there is no magic pill for this condition, there are some things you can try to help you get relief from the symptoms and help you feel better.
Fluid Intake
As you will be losing a lot of water from your body when you have a runny nose, you need to stock up on that lost water with as many fluids as you can drink. Have soups, broths, green teas, lime water and fruit juices with vitamin C, which also will help you fight your cold. Drink at least 10 glasses of water every day, and ensure that your urine has a light color.
Medication
If you are in the habit of popping over-the-counter pills for relief, try antihistamines such as Claritin and Allegra, available at any pharmacy. If these make you feel sleepy and slow, ask your primary-care physician for a prescription nonsedating drug. Avoid taking too many medicines at one time. Take the medicine that treats the particular symptom you are suffering from due to your allergy. Sometimes an oral decongestant can help, too. Also, if you are on some regular medication, consult your doctor in case some of the medicines might be causing your runny nose. Apart from a nose spray, one of the safest and best drugs you can get with a prescription is Cromolyn, which works by stabilizing nose cells and aids them in offering resistance to contact allergens. When such medication fails, the doctor may suggest steroidal drugs or allergy injections to treat severe conditions.
Sinus Cures
Sometimes an infection in the sinuses causes the nose to become watery. In such cases, your doctor may recommend a nasal douche. Use homemade saline water by mixing 1/4 tsp. of salt with 4 oz. of water, or use the store-bought variety. Put the water in the cup of your palm, sniff it through your nose and blow it out through a nostril, one at a time. This will soothe your sinuses and offer relief from the runny nose. You also should remember not to blow too hard through the nose if your ears get blocked. Steam inhalation is another way to tackle this issue.
General Measures
Use a humidifier at night to moisten your nasal membranes. Make it a point to clean out your humidifier every day with vinegar in order to prevent the formation of mold or fungus. Eating hot, spicy foods, or dropping a little heated mustard oil in one nostril at a time, have been known to help, too. If you are in the habit of exercising regularly, do not stop because you have a runny nose. If you are not feverish or don't have a bad cough, walk or do light exercises to rouse your body into activity and help it battle the cold better. If you know you are allergic to certain foods or plants that cause your nose to run, avoid them at all costs. Keep the dust level down in all of your furniture, bedding, linen and closet spaces by a regular cleaning regimen.
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