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A runny nose might simply be a nuisance, or it could be the sign of an underlying medical problem. At Lake Grove ENT in Lake Oswego, Oregon, board-certified otolaryngologists can find the root cause of a runny nose and offer you symptom relief. Schedule an appointment with Lake Grove ENT by phone or online to alleviate a severe or long-lasting runny nose.
What is a runny nose?
As the name implies, a runny nose is a condition in which fluids run from your nose. It often results when tissues lining your sinuses get inflamed and swollen, which can cause cold-like symptoms.
Depending on the cause of a runny nose, symptoms that might accompany it include:
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal discharge
- Facial pain or pressure
- Postnasal drip
- A sore throat
- Loss of smell and taste
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
While an acute runny nose might clear up on its own after a few days, a chronic runny nose can last 12 weeks or longer.
What causes a runny nose?
Nearly everybody develops a runny nose at some point during their lifetime. Common causes that may contribute to a runny nose include:
- Viruses
- Allergies
- Occupational asthma
- Nasal polyps
- Deviated septum
- Immune system disorders
- Facial trauma
- Tumors
- Sinus infections
- Colds, flu, and COVID-19
- Hormone changes
- Decongestant nasal spray overuse
- Certain medications
- Smoking
If your runny nose is severe or doesn’t go away within a few days, see the Lake Grove ENT team for an evaluation.
How does my doctor diagnose the cause of a runny nose?
To find the cause of a runny nose, your Lake Grove ENT specialist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and evaluate your nasal passages to look for inflammation, polyps, fluid buildup, and other abnormalities.
Your provider may recommend undergoing a nasal or throat swab, CT scans, MRIs, or allergy and asthma testing to detect or rule out specific medical problems.
What are common runny nose treatments?
Depending on the cause of a runny nose and its severity, the Lake Grove ENT team may suggest treatment. They might recommend over-the-counter or prescription oral medications or nasal sprays. Saline washes and sprays are also available, as well as allergy shots and minor surgical procedures.
Your ENT specialist personalizes each runny nose treatment to offer an effective, long-lasting outcome. They may suggest more than one treatment to best clear your nasal passages.
Don’t live with a runny nose that feels like a nuisance and diminishes your quality of life. Call the Lake Grove ENT office to schedule an appointment or book online today.