SELF: How to Stop a Runny Nose Fast, According to Doctors

SELF recently interviewed Nicole J. Van Groningen, MD, an internal medicine specialist at Cedars-Sinai, about how to relieve nasal congestion and a runny nose from a viral infection, allergies or other irritants, which occurs when inflammation increases mucus production.

Van Groningen told SELF that allergens—such as pet dander, dust mites or mold—can cause a runny nose. Even irritants—such as fragrances, cleaning products or cold air—can have a similar effect.

“These aren’t technically allergens but can still produce a response of congestion and a runny nose,” she said.

Van Groningen told SELF over-the-counter decongestants can reduce mucus flow during a respiratory infection, but she cautioned that nasal spray overuse can lead to rebound congestion.

“This means that your symptoms may return and even worsen once treatment stops,” she said. 

Van Groningen told SELF it also may be best to avoid nasal decongestants before going to bed because they “can actually kind of hype you up like caffeine, potentially causing insomnia and agitation.”

For people who would rather not use medication, she recommended a saline nasal spray, which moistens the nasal passage and helps clear irritants, as an “extremely low risk” option.

Van Groningen told SELF it’s a good idea to see a doctor if respiratory infection symptoms persist more than a week or worsen.

“It’s not something that’s dangerous if you can’t see your doctor after a week—it’s just going to be uncomfortable,” she said.

Experts also recommend seeing a doctor if additional symptoms occur, such as high fever or severe sinus pain, headaches or breathing problems.

Click here to read the complete article from SELF.