A blocked or runny nose can happen for a number of reasons. The two most common causes being:
- non-allergic rhinitis, associated with common colds, head-colds, etc.
- allergic rhinitis, often associated with ‘hay-fever’, house dust, etc.
The NHS notes that non-allergic rhinitis happens when the inside of your nose becomes irritated, causing a runny nose which may get blocked.
In this context an “irritation” is when the lining of the nose responds directly to an irritant, such as a cold (virus) or a strong smell, causing discomfort, itching, runny nose, sneezing, while an “allergy” is an immune system response to a specific substance (allergens like pollen) that can trigger a delayed reaction and causing several similar symptoms. Both types of rhinitis can be treated with various medicine options from a pharmacy, and so surgery reception teams will often refer patients for a pharmacy consultation.
[follow this allergic rhinitis link if the runny nose is allergic in nature, where something like pollen kicks it off]
NHS Information for Patients
The different causes of a runny or blocked nose require different treatments, so it is important to understand what is causing the problem. The NHS website provides helpful information to help distinguish which it is.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/non-allergic-rhinitis
Help at the Pharmacy
Having a cold is the most common reason for non-allergic rhinitis and the runny nose symptoms that it causes. It often presents with other symptoms such as sneezing, or itchy nose.
Streaming Runny Nose
- Decongestants – Can help dry up a runny or stuffy nose. However, you shouldn’t use them for more than a few days at a time.
- Antihistamines Can help treat allergy symptoms. However, some antihistamines can make you drowsy.
Excess Nasal Mucus
- Hydration: Drink ample water to thin out mucus and make it easier to clear.
- Humidifier: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially in dry environments.
- Saline rinse: Rinse your nasal passages with saline spray to clear out mucus
Constant need to Clear the Throat
When a runny nose or blocked sinus or excess mucus runs down the back of the throat it can cause a frequent and irritating urge to clear the throat. This is often linked with both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, and most people will be aware if they are also experiencing other associated head cold or hay-fever symptoms.
- See a pharmacist or a doctor if throat-clearing urges have lasted for more than a week or 10 days especially if it is not linked with other common cold or hay-fever symptoms.
So it is good to explore the treatment options with a pharmacist to identify the most appropriate treatment.
If symptoms get worse
Some people may experience worsening symptoms. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor…
- If you have a fever along with excessive mucus
- If your nasal mucus or coughed up phlegm is discoloured (green, yellow, bloody)
- If you experience difficulty breathing due to mucus or phlegm build up
- If your symptoms are persistent or worsening
Painful Blocked Sinuses – follow this link for further information on this symptom
Sore Throat – follow this link for further information on this symptom.