With the cold weather sticking around, it might feel like you’ve got a runny nose most of the time. You’re sniffling constantly, there’s a drip in the back of your throat, or worse, it’s coming out of your nose.
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What Makes Your Nose Run?
Bacteria and viruses are in the air all around us, and they go up your nose. The mucus in your nose and the cilia, those hair-like structures inside your nostrils, work together to trap germs and keep you from getting sick.
Your nose produces more mucus to try to push out the germs that have made their way in. If the germs get past the mucus lining in your nose, you’re likely to get sick. That’s when your immune system kicks in even more, creating more snot.
You’ll have a runny nose as long as it takes your immune system to fight off the illness, and then it’ll decrease. When the mucus dries up, you get boogers. Although gross, those boogers can give you a hint as to what your immune system is doing and whether you’re fighting off an illness that requires a trip to the doctor.
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What Can You Do About a Runny Nose?
There’s not much you can do to stop your nose from running. Your body’s working the way it should be. If the nasal drip is just too much, you can take an antihistamine, decongestant, or try different ways to clean your nose.
Remember that while your nose is running, that mucus can spread sickness to other people. Be sure to wash your hands every time you blow or wipe your nose. And look out for other people with runny noses to make sure you don’t catch their germs.
About Ear Nose and Throat
Ear, Nose, and Throat Services at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside ranks among the best nationally on U.S. News & World Report’s listings. Our team includes board-certified physicians and highly skilled speech-language pathologists and audiologists. We treat a variety of ear, nose, and throat conditions in both children and adults and provide both surgical and non-surgical options. Our doctors also take part in research and clinical trials. We have locations throughout western Pennsylvania for patient convenience.