Do you also have a runny nose? (Runny Nose) - Let's find out about this!

A runny nose, or as we call it, a runny nose, is something we often experience in our daily lives. Sometimes, when we catch a cold, or smell something strange, or cry a lot... our nose starts to 'work' at times like these. So why does this really happen? Is this normal? Let's talk about this in a little more detail, so that you too can have a clear understanding of this.

What is `Sotu`?

First, let's see what this 'snot' or 'snot' is. In medical terms, we call it `(Mucus)`. This is actually a slightly thick, sticky, slimy substance that forms inside our nose and the cavities connected to the nose (i.e. `(Sinuses)`). Can you imagine, our nose and these `(Sinuses)` produce close to a liter of this `(Mucus)` a day (i.e. about 950 milliliters!)! Isn't it amazing? But most of this goes down our throats without us realizing it, and that's normal.

So why does this `(Mucus)` form so much? It's not just a waste. It has many benefits for us.

• Safety: The main thing is that the dust, dirt, and germs (i.e. `(Bacteria)`, `(Viruses)`) in the air we breathe stick to this `(Mucus)` and stop it from going into the nose and into the lungs. It works like a glue stick .
• Retaining moisture: This also helps to keep the delicate membranes inside our nose from drying out and retaining moisture. If our nose is dry, it can be very uncomfortable, and it can feel difficult to breathe.
• Warming and humidifying the air: This `(Mucus)` also contributes to warming the breath we inhale, adding moisture to it and sending it to the lungs. This makes the air entering the lungs suitable for the body.

Then why does the nose sometimes run excessively?

Okay, so why does this `(Mucus)` production sometimes increase and start to come out of the nose? There could be several reasons for that. Simply put, when our body detects some `problem', it produces more `(Mucus)` in response to it. Let's see what the main reasons are.

Common Cold and Flu

The main reason why we often have a runny nose is a cold. This occurs when a `(Virus)` enters the body. When this `(Virus)` attacks the membranes inside the nose, our body's defense system (i.e. `(Immune System)`) is activated. As a result, `(Mucus)` production increases, and the `(Virus)` is caught, washed away and thrown out. The same situation occurs when we get a cold (`(Flu)`).

At first, the discharge from the nose is often clear like water. After a few days, it may thicken a bit and turn yellowish-green. This is because the cells of our body's `(Immune System)` are collecting waste products that are produced when they fight germs. However, just because the discharge turns green does not mean that you need `(Antibiotic)`. Most of the time, these are `(Viral infections)` and `(Antibiotics)` are not effective.

Allergies (`(Allergies)`)

Another major cause is allergies, or as we call them `(Allergies)`. Some people can be allergic to things like dust, pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. When something like this enters the nose, our body recognizes it as an 'enemy' and starts reacting against it. Then chemicals like `(Histamine)` are released. This `(Histamine)` is what causes symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose, and red eyes. This condition is called `(Allergic Rhinitis)`.

Irritants

Sometimes, things that 'irritate' our nose can cause a runny nose. For example, cigarette smoke, car exhaust, strong perfumes, and some cleaning chemicals. These things stimulate the delicate membranes inside the nose, which increases the production of 'mucus' as a defense mechanism. In other words, the nose is trying to wash away the irritant.

When Crying

When you cry a lot, water comes out of your nose, right? It's very normal. The reason for this is that when tears come from our eyes, some of those tears travel through the tear ducts into the nose. Then those tears mix with the mucus in the nose and come out. That's why you get a runny nose when you cry. So there's nothing to worry about.

Cold Weather

Even when you go outside on cold days, you may experience a runny nose. This is because our noses try to warm the cold, dry air we breathe in and add moisture to it. This process can increase the production of `(Mucus)`. Also, the cold air can cause the blood vessels inside the nose to contract a little, and then expand again, which can increase the runny nose.

Spicy Foods

When you eat something spicy, like a good chili curry, does it make your nose run? It's called `(Gustatory Rhinitis)`. Ingredients like `(Capsaicin)` in spicy foods (especially those in chili peppers) stimulate the nerves in our nose. As a result, `(Mucus)` production increases. This is not harmful either.

Other Causes

In addition to these main causes, there are other rare causes of nasal discharge. For example:

• Nasal Polyps: These are soft, painless growths that form inside the nose or sinuses. They can cause nasal congestion and a loss of sense of smell.
• Deviated Septum: The wall that separates the nostrils is deviated to one side. This can also cause nasal discharge and congestion.
• Some medications: Some medications, for example, some medications for high blood pressure, can cause nasal discharge as a side effect.
• Pregnancy: Due to hormonal changes, some pregnant women may develop a condition called ``Pregnancy Rhinitis.'' This also causes nasal congestion and runny nose.

If you have any doubts about things like this, it is best to seek medical advice.

What do we do about this?

So what can we do when we have a runny nose? Most of the time, it's not serious and will go away on its own in a few days. But there are a few things we can do to reduce the discomfort in the meantime.

• Rest and Fluids : It is important to get plenty of rest , especially if you have a runny nose due to something like a cold. Also, drink plenty of fluids like water, orange, ginger, coriander, ginger tea, fruit juice, and porridge . This will prevent dehydration and help thin the mucus so it can be easier to cough up.
• Steam Inhalation : Inhaling steam by adding lime leaves, kohmba leaves, or pawpaw leaves to a bowl of hot water is very beneficial. This reduces congestion inside the nose and helps to loosen mucus. Do the steam inhalation for about 10-15 minutes, two or three times a day . However, you need to be very careful when doing this to small children, as the hot water can burn them.
• Saline Nasal Drops or Sprays : Applying saline (pure salt water) to the nose, which you can buy at pharmacies, is another good way to clean the inside of the nose, moisturize it, and help thin out mucus. These are safe and can be used even by young children .
• Nasal Irrigation : Using a device like a Neti Pot and rinsing the inside of the nose with saline water can also help some people. However, it is important to follow the correct method and use clean, distilled, or boiled water when doing this. Doing it incorrectly can lead to infection.
• Over-the-Counter Medications : You can get over-the-counter medications from the pharmacy for things like colds and allergies. For example, antihistamines (these are most commonly used for allergies) and decongestants (these reduce nasal congestion). However, when using these , you should consult a pharmacist or doctor and use them exactly as recommended . Be especially careful when giving them to young children, pregnant women, and people with other medical conditions.

When should we see a doctor about this?

Most of the time, a runny nose will go away within a week or two. But there are some cases where we should definitely see a doctor. What are those cases?

Remember, if you have one or more of these symptoms, it's wise to seek medical advice rather than self-medicate. Sometimes, even though it may seem like a simple thing, there could be something serious underlying.

• Symptoms last more than a week: Even if it's just a common cold, it doesn't get better after a week or two, or if it gets worse.
• High fever: If you have a high fever (especially if it is over 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit)) that doesn't go down after a few days.
• Severe pain in the face or ear: If you feel severe pain or pressure in the face, forehead, or cheek area, as in a `(Sinus)` infection (`(Sinusitis)`). Or if you have severe pain in the ear (`(Ear pain)`).
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain: Not just a stuffy nose, but if you really feel like you're having trouble breathing, are breathing rapidly, or have chest pain.
• Other symptoms with green/yellow mucus: If thick, green or yellow mucus is accompanied by other symptoms of infection, such as high fever, body aches, and extreme fatigue, it could be a bacterial infection.
• After a head injury: If you have a clear, watery fluid coming out of your nose after a blow to the head, it could be cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This is an emergency and you should go to the hospital immediately.
• Frequent runny nose: If you have frequent runny noses for no apparent reason, you should check for an underlying cause.
• In young children: If a baby under 3 months old has a fever and is drooling, refuses to eat or drink, seems to be having difficulty breathing, or is drowsy, see a doctor immediately. For children under 2 years old, seek medical advice if the fever lasts more than 24 days.

The most important things for you to remember (Take-Home Message)

Okay, so, here are the main things you need to remember from what we've talked about today:

• A runny nose, also known as a ``Runny Nose'', is often a normal defense response of the body . It is not just a nuisance.
• The main causes of this are colds, allergies, and things that irritate the nose. But there can be other causes as well.
• Simple home remedies (rest, fluids, steam inhalation, saline drops) can provide relief.
• However, if symptoms are severe, persist for a long time, or if there are other warning signs, you should definitely seek medical advice . Do not make decisions alone.
• Although a runny nose can be annoying, it's also a sign that your body is working to protect you. So, it's important to understand it and take the necessary steps. Do you understand? I wish you good health!

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