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What Causes a Runny Nose?

November 25, 2024

Being sick is not fun. Illness symptoms can vary from person to person depending on the underlying illness. Having a runny nose is a very common illness symptom associated with viral infections. However, runny noses can also be caused by conditions such as allergies, the weather, and moisture in the air. Keep reading to learn more about what could be causing your runny nose and how to get rid of a runny nose fast.

If you’re suffering from illness symptoms, AFC Urgent Care Stoneham is here to help! Our walk-in clinic offers patients in Stoneham, MA, and the surrounding communities with rapid same-day symptom diagnosis and treatment. Walk-in today or schedule your visit online in advance below.

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Why Do Runny Noses Happen?

Our sinuses are closely related to our immune system. They link our lungs to the outside world, meaning that exposure to irritants in the sinuses or airway can directly impact the lungs. As a natural form of protection, our sinuses produce mucus. Mucus lines the airways so that the tissues don't dry out or become irritated. However, mucus also can be used to flush out irritants or pathogens like bacteria or viruses. Runny noses are our body's natural response to an irritant. Your body will create excess mucus to flush out a pathogen that can make you sick. Or, if the air is dry, excess mucus will be produced to prevent your airway from drying out.

Runny Nose Diagnosis & Treatment near Stoneham, MA

If you’re suffering from a runny nose, there is a chance it is because you’re sick. However, in order to know for sure you should always seek medical care for any illness symptoms. Your medical provider will be able to evaluate your symptoms, discuss any additional symptoms you’re experiencing, and perform any necessary diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms so you can treat them effectively.

How to Get Rid of a Runny Nose

If you’re suffering from a runny nose, it can be difficult to control. Being in public with a runny nose can be embarrassing. The only real way to treat a runny nose is to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. However, here are some tips for getting rid of a runny nose at home if you’re in a pinch:

  • Use a humidifier in your home
  • Treat any seasonal allergies
  • Do a deep clean to remove any dust or irritants in your home
  • Take an over-the-counter decongestant medication
  • Use a saline nasal spray to hydrate your sinuses
  • Take a hot shower to loosen mucus in your sinuses

Walk Into AFC Stoneham for Same-Day Illness Treatment in Stoneham, MA

If you’re suffering from symptoms like a runny nose, you could be sick. At AFC Urgent Care Stoneham, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt symptom diagnosis and treatment. We make it convenient to get care for illness symptoms - just walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you! We are open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm and we never require that you schedule an appointment. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care. For more information, walk into the clinic today or call us directly at (781) 279-4000.

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