Got a runny nose due to a cold or allergies? A case of the sniffles is caused by excess nasal discharge, or rhinorrhea, which refers to mucus secretions that can cause runny nose or post nasal drip (down the back of the throat).  A runny nose is a common symptom that can overlap due to a common cold or a case of the allergies. Either way the remedies to stop runny nose discomfort are similar:

1.  Over-the-counter medications
You don’t necessarily need doctor prescribed medications to treat the symptoms of a runny nose due to a cold or seasonal allergies. Allergic sinusitis, scratchy throat, hives, and red eyes respond well to antihistamine medications. Whereas symptoms of a common cold are often reduced with over-the-counter cold medications like Vicks vapor rub to break up congestion, cough syrups to dry up a runny nose and soothe a stubborn cough, and sore throat drops.  

2.  Nasal sprays
Sinusitis and nasal congestion due to cough and cold can often be reduced using a saline nasal spray, which helps dry up excess mucus and expand nasal passages, and soothe and hydrate the sinuses.

3.  Humidifiers

Adding moisture back into your indoor environment is vital to soothe the nasal passages, particularly during dry winter months. You can choose a warm or cool mist humidifier to break up congestion and reduce coughing, as the water vapor will reach the same temperature once it’s inhaled into your lower airways.

4.  Apply steam
Taking a warm shower, soaking in a hot bath, or breathing in the steam of a humidifier can do wonders for stuffy sinuses and dry air passages. If you don’t own a humidifier, try pouring boiling water into a bowl, let slightly cool down, and cover your head with a towel as you inhale the hydrating steam and open up your airways.

5.  Fluids and rest
Your mom was right whenever she recommended lots of sleep and fluids to fight a cold. Plenty of rest will give your body the energy it needs to heal. While sipping water, herbal teas, and clear broth will break up mucus and congestion and promote nasal drainage. Eating, even a little bit of soup, while sick will give you the strength you need to fight cold and allergy symptoms.