Condition guide
Runny Nose
Constant dripping or runny nose? Stop the drip with the right antihistamines or decongestants.
Find the right medicineTreatment and relief options
- Antihistamines (cetirizine/loratadine) for allergic runny nose
- Decongestant sprays (oxymetazoline) for short term relief
- Saline nasal rinse to clear mucus
- Steam inhalation
- Stay hydrated
When to get help
- Fluid or blood leaking from the nose after a head injury: call Triple Zero (000)
- Unilateral (one side) foul smelling discharge in child (foreign body)
- Severe sinus pain and fever
- Bloody discharge lasting >1 week
- Visual changes
Good to know
What the colour and the side tell you
Clear mucus can come from an irritated nose, but it doesn't rule out an infection. Green or yellow mucus shows that white blood cells have been fighting an infection, but antibiotics are rarely needed for a runny nose. See a doctor if only one nostril runs, as something may be stuck in it. Fluid or blood leaking from the nose after a head injury needs Triple Zero (000). Sneezing with itchy eyes points to hay fever or sneezing; a sore throat and aches to cold and flu; and pain in your face to sinus pain.
Medicines that help, and some that cause it
Some medicines, including anti-inflammatories, ACE inhibitors and some diuretics, can cause a runny nose. Decongestants can help a runny nose from a cold, but using them for more than a few days at a time can make symptoms worse. Antihistamines alone aren't effective for a cold but can ease allergy symptoms. A saltwater rinse can wash out mucus and allergens. Mucus running down the back of your throat (post-nasal drip) can cause a cough. See your doctor if a runny nose isn't improving, gets worse or comes with a high fever.
Sources: healthdirect — Runny nose; healthdirect — Medicines for colds, flu (influenza) and COVID-19; healthdirect — Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
Frequently asked questions
Colds, flu, allergies (hay fever), or cold weather. It's your body flushing out irritants.
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Medical disclaimer
This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for you.