What causes nasal congestion and involuntary runny nose?
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
In general, nasal congestion and involuntary runny nose may be caused by conditions such as the common cold, allergic rhinitis, or acute rhinitis. Severe colds can lead to nasal congestion and runny nose, and some patients may also develop symptoms such as fever and cough. Patients can use saline solution to rinse the nasal cavity to help relieve nasal congestion and discharge. Oseltamivir granules may be used under the guidance of a doctor.
Generally, nasal congestion and involuntary runny nose may be caused by conditions such as the common cold, allergic rhinitis, or acute rhinitis. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Common Cold
In severe cases of the common cold, patients may experience nasal congestion and a runny nose. Some individuals may also develop symptoms such as fever and cough. Nasal irrigation with saline solution can help relieve nasal congestion and discharge. Under medical guidance, medications such as oseltamivir granules or compound paracetamol and amantadine tablets may be used for treatment. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of warm water, stay warm, and get adequate rest.
2. Allergic Rhinitis
When the body's resistance decreases, factors such as cold air, dust, and pollen may trigger allergic rhinitis, characterized by recurrent nasal congestion, clear watery nasal discharge, sneezing, and nasal itching. Patients can take medications such as loratadine capsules or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets under medical supervision.
3. Acute Rhinitis
Acute rhinitis causes nasal mucosal congestion and edema, leading to symptoms including nasal obstruction, persistent bilateral nasal discharge, significantly reduced sense of smell, and a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the head. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may be treated with medications such as azithromycin tablets or amoxicillin dispersible tablets.
Besides the above three causes, similar symptoms may also result from sinusitis, acute bronchitis, pneumonia, or other conditions. If symptoms are severe, patients should seek immediate medical attention at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
