Imagine that you’re in an important meeting, and instead of sharing new ideas, all you’re doing is tackling your runny nose. This is an issue that can often embarrass people, and that’s why you need to look for a quick way to fix it. A runny nose doesn’t seem like a problem when it’s there for a day or two, but when it goes on for more, you might want to treat it well.

Rhinorrhea is a common problem that can irritate you, especially when there is a change in the season. The term ‘rhinitis’ is often used to refer to a runny nose. It happens when there is excess mucus in the sinus and nasal passages. The mucus production is the body’s way of flushing out cold or flu viruses, irritants and allergens out of the body. The formation of mucus is also the body’s defenses against respiratory infections and part of the histamine reaction to allergies (histamine is an organic nitrogenous compound produced by your body when you have a cold). So, do you know the causes and ways to tackle a runny nose? Here, we’ve come up with a list of home remedies and runny nose treatments. Take a look, so that the next time you have a runny nose, you know how to treat it.

Causes
A runny nose can be caused by external matter that bothers or stings the nasal tissues. Infections like the typical fever and allergies and allergens may also cause a runny nose. Some may have a chronic runny nose for no apparent reason, and the condition is known as nonallergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis. It may also be caused due to polyps, foreign bodies, tumors or migraines. Apart from these, a runny nose can also be a sign or an allergy, dry air, hormonal changes, sinus infection, hay fever, vasomotor rhinitis, etc.

Treatment
Over-the-counter medications may not cure your cold completely. However, they can make you feel better. Here’s a list of few products that can be used for runny nose treatment.

When you get cold, your body starts producing histamines in a larger quantity. Your doctor may suggest antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine or diphenhydramine to block the production of histamines and relieve symptoms related to histamine reaction to allergies. These medications may also help you to sleep and dry out your nose, mouth, and eyes.
The doctor may also suggest you some cough suppressants like dextromethorphan that can provide temporary relief.
Expectorants like guaifenesin can help in thinning the mucus in your airways by breaking the congestion in your chest. Patients are advised to drink a lot of water while taking this medication.
In the case of the flu or other viral fever acetaminophen or ibuprofen, medications are suggested. These drugs help in lowering the fever and ease the pain.

Home remedies
Home remedies can be effectively used as part of runny nose treatment. There are several over-the-counter medications to treat a runny nose. However, these medications may have some side effects like drowsiness. Home remedies can give instant relief without any side effects. Some of the widely used home remedies for runny nose treatment are as follows:

• Saltwater
  Saltwater decreases the irritation that accompanies a runny nose. Saltwater makes the mucus thinner and easier to expel. It also helps in clearing the nasal section. Mix two cups of warm water with a one-half teaspoon of table salt. Put a few drops of the solution into each nostril to get the best out of this runny nose treatment.
• Water-vapour or steam
  Steam is one of the best home remedies for a runny nose treatment. It eliminates the excess mucus that causes running nose as well as sneezing. As part of this runny nose treatment, one can hold his/her face over hot water and breathe the steam. You can also add a drop or two of your favorite essential oil. After ten minutes of breathing, blow your nose. Repeat this action four times a day.
• Mustard oil
  Being known for its antibiotic and antiviral properties, mustard oil is widely used as a runny nose treatment. It also has antihistamine properties. To get the best results boil one bowl of water with little mustard oil and use a dropper to put one or two drops of the solution in each nostril.
• Turmeric
  Turmeric has many antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is highly efficient for a runny nose treatment. One can consume turmeric powder with or without water to get the best results.
• Ginger
  Ginger is well known for its anti-fungal, anti-acidic and anti-viral properties. Drinking ginger roots tea can give quick relief from a runny nose. One may also chew raw ginger, sprinkled with salt to get better results.

Since this is a common issue faced by everyone, it makes sense to be aware of what causes the issue and also how to obtain relief easily. You can try these simple home remedies, and if the problem persists, over the counter medication can be tried or the doctor can be consulted.