Why does rhinitis cause runny nose like water?
Apr 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Runny nose with discharge resembling water in rhinitis may be caused by viral infection, leading to acute inflammation of the nasal mucosa and resulting in acute rhinitis; the inflammatory response irritates the nasal mucosa. It could also be triggered by exposure to allergens, inducing an immune reaction that causes glandular hyperplasia and increased secretion. Alternatively, it may result from secondary acute rhinitis progressing to acute sinusitis, causing dilation and congestion of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa, thereby increasing nasal secretions.
The cause of runny nose with watery discharge in rhinitis depends on the type of rhinitis, common types including acute rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis.
1. Acute Rhinitis
This may be caused by viral infection leading to acute inflammation of the nasal mucosa, where inflammatory factors irritate the nasal lining. Treatment may include budesonide nasal spray, fluticasone propionate nasal spray, or mometasone furoate nasal spray, used as directed by a physician.
2. Allergic Rhinitis
This may occur when exposure to allergens triggers an immune response, causing glandular hyperplasia and increased secretion. Medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or ebastine tablets can be used under medical guidance.
3. Sinusitis
This may develop as a complication of acute rhinitis, leading to acute sinusitis, nasal mucosal vasodilation, congestion, and increased secretions. Treatment options may include furamidine nasal drops, xylometazoline nasal spray, or oxymetazoline nasal drops, used according to medical advice.
In addition, watery nasal discharge could also be due to cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. It is recommended to seek appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause.
