You may be experiencing the symptoms of a cold or allergies. A runny nose and sneezing are common signs of both. Colds are caused by viruses, while allergies are caused by exposure to an allergen, such as pollen or pet dander. In both cases, your body is trying to fight off the invader.
Causes of a Runny Nose and Sneezing
Colds: A cold is caused by a virus. When the virus enters your body, your immune system kicks into gear and releases chemicals to fight it off. These chemicals can irritate your nasal passages and make them produce more mucus. This is why you have a runny nose when you have a cold. The extra mucus can also make you sneeze.
Allergies: Allergies happen when your body reacts to a harmless substance, such as pollen or pet dander. Your body mistakes the allergen for a threat and releases chemicals to fight it off. These chemicals can irritate your nasal passages and make them produce more mucus. This is why you have a runny nose when you have allergies. The extra mucus can also make you sneeze.
Treatments for a Runny Nose and Sneezing
If you have a cold, there is no cure. You can, however, treat your symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants can help relieve your runny nose and sneezing. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to see a doctor for a prescription medication.
If you have allergies, the best way to treat your symptoms is to avoid the allergen that is causing them. If that is not possible, you can take over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to see a doctor for a prescription medication.
