Which type of cold causes runny nose and watery eyes?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
There is no such thing as "which type of cold causes runny nose and tearing." Runny nose and tearing may result from cold air irritation, odor stimulation, allergic rhinitis, common cold, sinusitis, etc. Symptoms can be improved through保暖 measures, avoiding irritants, and medication. If symptoms persist or worsen, or are accompanied by fever or headache, prompt medical attention is necessary.

There is no such thing as "which type of cold causes runny nose and tearing." Runny nose and tearing may result from cold air irritation, odor stimulation, allergic rhinitis, common cold, or sinusitis. Symptoms can be improved through warmth protection, avoiding irritants, and medication. If symptoms persist or worsen, or are accompanied by fever or headache, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Cold Air Irritation: Sudden exposure to low temperatures can irritate nasal and ocular mucous membranes, causing blood vessels to constrict and then dilate, increasing secretions and leading to runny nose and tearing. It is recommended to dress warmly, wear masks and protective goggles to reduce direct exposure to cold air.

2. Odor Stimulation: Exposure to pungent, irritating odors, dust, or smoke can trigger reflexive secretion from irritated mucous membranes, resulting in runny nose and tearing. It is advised to immediately leave the irritating environment, breathe fresh air, and rinse the nasal cavity with water to relieve discomfort.

3. Allergic Rhinitis: After exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust mites, the nasal mucosa undergoes an allergic reaction, causing runny nose and tearing, often accompanied by nasal itching and sneezing. Patients may use medications such as Loratadine Syrup, Mometasone Furoate Nasal Spray, or Montelukast Sodium Granules under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Common Cold: Viral infection of the upper respiratory tract leads to inflammation of nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, causing runny nose and tearing, along with sore throat and mild cough. Under medical supervision, medications such as Pediatric Paracetamol-Phenylpropanolamine Granules, Physiological Seawater Nasal Spray, or Ribavirin Granules may be used to relieve symptoms.

5. Sinusitis: Nasal inflammation spreads to the sinuses, causing infection of the sinus mucosa, resulting in purulent nasal discharge and tearing, accompanied by nasal congestion and headache. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications like Cefaclor for Oral Suspension, Biyuan Tongqiao Granules, or Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride Nasal Drops to improve symptoms.

Daily care should include maintaining indoor ventilation, avoiding allergens and irritants, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, dressing appropriately to prevent chills, and keeping nasal and eye areas clean to support recovery.