Having a runny nose is a common occurrence, especially during the colder winter months. Luckily, having a runny nose is not always a symptom of an illness, and instead can simply happen due to environmental irritation, temperature changes or allergies which lead to the over production of mucus. Keep reading to learn more about managing a runny nose, and when a runny nose may need medical attention.
At AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch, our walk-in clinic is available 7 days a week to provide rapid runny nose diagnosis and treatment. We treat patients of all ages on a walk-in basis, and have short wait times. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance using the button below.
Why Do I Get a Runny Nose When It’s Cold Out
Getting a runny nose is extremely common when it’s cold outside. You may notice that you get a runny nose when you step outside, even if you’re not sick. This is because cold air can be extremely irritating to your airway, which causes your body to produce extra mucus to protect and moisten your airway. Sometimes, indoor heating can also cause a runny nose due to the heat drying out your airway. Using a humidifier in your home can help keep moisture in the air if you’re struggling with a runny nose while indoors.
Is it Normal for a Runny Nose to Come and Go?
Runny noses occur as your body adjusts to your surroundings in many cases. Because of this, a runny nose can come and go as your environment changes. When it’s cold outside, you may get a runny nose suddenly, but it will often resolve itself once you’re back indoors. Similarly, if your runny nose is caused by allergies, you may notice that your symptoms worsen when you’re outdoors and exposed to allergens, but go away once you’re back inside. This is completely normal, and nothing to worry about.
When a Runny Nose May Indicate that You’re Getting Sick
If you’re experiencing a runny nose that is consistent or worsening with time, it is possible that you’re getting sick. You can develop a runny nose as an early illness symptom, because your body will produce excess mucus to try to flush out pathogens trying to attack your body like viruses and bacteria. A persistent runny nose that just won’t go away, or a runny nose that turns into congestion often means that you’re getting sick.
Visit AFC West Long Branch for Same-Day Illness Symptom Diagnosis and Treatment
Runny noses can happen due to a variety of conditions, and they don’t always indicate that you’re sick. Weather, allergens and your environment can all trigger you to experience a runny nose. However, if your runny nose is persistent or worsening over time instead of going away, you could be getting sick and may need to seek medical care for diagnosis and treatment.
At AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch, you can walk into our office any day of the week for prompt symptom diagnosis and treatment if you think you could be getting sick. Catching an illness early will allow you to treat it more effectively and reduce your recovery time! Our board-certified medical providers are experts in diagnosing common illness symptoms. We accept most major medical insurance plans, and have affordable rates for self-paying patients. Walk into the clinic today!
