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Treatment of chronic rhinitis in an adult. How to treat a prolonged runny nose in an adult? Folk remedies for protracted runny nose in an adult

How to treat a prolonged runny nose in an adult? This is the question that people usually ask during the cold season, because that is when this phenomenon is observed. Prolonged runny nose is considered rhinitis, which does not go away within two weeks. This unpleasant ailment can bypass only a person who has strong immunity. But how to treat a protracted runny nose in an adult if conventional medications do not help? You can find the answer to this question in this article.

What are the causes of chronic rhinitis?

As a rule, this ailment is a harbinger of a cold. But it also happens that rhinitis does not go away for a certain amount of time. In this situation, people ask themselves: if the ailment does not go away for more than three weeks, how to treat a prolonged runny nose in an adult? Usually, patients look for an answer on the Internet. Most of them do not want to visit a specialist. Therefore, another of the common questions is the following: how to treat a protracted runny nose in an adult with folk remedies?

In order to learn more about this, it is necessary to expose the source of rhinitis. So, there can be several reasons:

  • Environmental influence. Due to the fact that a person is in a room that is rarely ventilated and a large amount of dust accumulates in it, allergic rhinitis may develop.
  • Accommodations. A sick person should pay attention to irritants that may be at home. These include household dust. Also, an allergic reaction can be due to a dust mite.
  • Autoimmune diseases. These include psoriasis.
  • Constant stay in a room where the air is very dry. As a rule, this phenomenon is observed during the heating season.

With the last source of the disease, you need to buy a humidifier. It is he who will help get rid of the dry atmosphere in the room.

In addition to these reasons, otolaryngologists talk about one more thing - about congenital pathologies. They arise due to problems with the regulation of mucus in the nasopharynx. This phenomenon occurs due to the curvature of the nasal septum.

Also, prolonged rhinitis may appear due to Kartagener's syndrome. With this disease, the ciliary channel does not function well. He is responsible for the excretion of mucus. In case of violations, processes of a stagnant nature occur. They lead to the accumulation of mucus in the bronchi and nasopharynx. As a result, in addition to rhinitis, there is also a cough. The latter is accompanied by expectoration of yellowish-green mucus.

What is drug rhinitis?

This disease is one of the most common types of diseases. It develops due to improper use of vasoconstrictor nasal drops during colds. Also, a drug runny nose can be a side effect due to the use of antiviral medications. Recognizing drug-induced rhinitis is easy. It appears as a common allergic rhinitis with copious clear discharge. In addition, nasal congestion may be added to them.

The risk group for this disease includes the elderly, patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system and children.

What are the types of rhinitis?

Before prescribing treatment to the patient, it is necessary to determine what type of rhinitis should be discussed. There are usually two main types of rhinitis: allergic and infectious. The latter occurs with a cold. In both cases, the specialist conducts research. As a result, he reveals the cause of a prolonged runny nose. You should think about what you need to visit a doctor when this ailment does not go away for more than nine days.

Consider some types of the common cold. The most common is allergic. It has been established that about one third of the population suffers from it. This happens because of the ecological situation in the environment. The main provocateurs of this rhinitis are plant pollen, animals and dust mites.

Vasomotor rhinitis is very similar to the previous form. But in this case, tobacco smoke, smells of perfumes and household chemicals are considered irritants. Copious secretion of mucus occurs due to irritant effects on the nasal mucosa. As a therapy, the specialist prescribes nasal sprays.

Medical rhinitis has already been mentioned earlier. Its cause is the disproportionate use of vasoconstrictor nasal drops. The latter, in turn, are addictive.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur in the female body. It can manifest itself as rhinitis for a long amount of time. When they do not deliver a woman in a position of discomfort, experts advise not to use vasoconstrictor drugs. In this case, you can use folk remedies. This type of runny nose goes away a couple of weeks after childbirth.

How to cure a prolonged runny nose in an adult at home quickly?

To do this, follow the general requirements for therapy. So, you need bed rest and the use of inhalations. These measures will be effective at the initial stage of rhinitis. They can be used until the disease has become chronic.

And how to treat a protracted runny nose in an adult if mucous discharge and nasal congestion appear? In this case, vasoconstrictor drugs will come to the rescue. Also, to all this, the specialist prescribes combined drugs. If the patient does not improve, then antibiotics will be required.

Thus, not everything has been said about how to cure a prolonged runny nose in an adult at home quickly. This method of therapy also involves folk remedies. They will be discussed in more detail in the following sections of the article.

How to treat a prolonged runny nose in an adult? This therapy involves several directions.

The lower limbs should be warmed up with mustard baths. Herbal inhalations will also help well. In addition, essential oils can be used instead of a solution.

A number of patients instill aloe or onion juice into the nasal passages. They also help a lot in the fight against this disease.

Another method of treatment is the use of decoctions of an immuno-strengthening nature, the use of physiotherapy and the use of medicines.

It helps well with massage on the sinuses and laser therapy. With caution, it is necessary to treat this ailment for women in position. They should definitely consult a specialist.

What does drug therapy involve?

How to cure a prolonged runny nose in an adult? Medicines prescribed by a doctor will help to get rid of this disease faster.

To begin with, the specialist determines the cause of rhinitis, and then prescribes the appropriate therapy. As a general rule, moisturizers should be used. They cleanse the sinuses and consist of sea water. The last component has a good effect on the mucous membranes.

If the patient has, in addition to all this, also an inflammatory process, then drugs such as Coldrex or Coldakt are prescribed. Basically, with prolonged rhinitis, simply vasoconstrictor drugs are prescribed. As a rule, reviews of how to treat a protracted runny nose in adults also apply to such effective drugs as Nazivin and Xymelin. But it is worth remembering that the opinion of people is not always correct, therefore, in any case, it is necessary to contact a qualified specialist for treatment, and not do it yourself.

Also, complications can occur with rhinitis. Then how to treat a prolonged runny nose with pus in an adult? Usually we are talking about infection here. The patient is prescribed the same medications that were listed above. But this type of disease can not do without the use of antibiotics. They must be broad spectrum. A prescription for the drug is written by a doctor. In simpler situations, aerosols like Isofra, Polydex are prescribed. If there is a risk of infection entering the hearing aid or respiratory tract, then systemic antibiotic therapy is prescribed. Together with them, you should take probiotics, which will help restore the intestinal microflora.

How should allergic rhinitis be treated?

First you need to accurately determine the cause of a prolonged runny nose. This is followed by a series of surveys. Then find out what is the main allergen.

The main drugs that are used for this type of rhinitis are antihistamines. The most common and effective among them are Loratadin and Cetrin.

In addition to taking medications, you can additionally do inhalations using essential oils and herbal preparations.

What is the treatment with folk remedies?

It should be noted that this method of therapy should be used with the permission of a specialist.

How to cure a protracted runny nose in an adult with folk remedies? The basis of this method of therapy is washing. We present two main methods.

Decoctions of chamomile, calendula and eucalyptus help very well. Alternatively, an iodine solution can be used. To prepare it, you need one tablespoon of salt and a few drops of iodinol.

Additionally, herbal inhalations are used. In this case, use oregano, chamomile and linden.

Drops from plant sap also have a beneficial effect. For example, from Kalanchoe or garlic.

How to make drops from aloe?

How to treat a prolonged runny nose in an adult at home? Natural drops are an excellent remedy to get rid of this ailment. Aloe has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. That is why this plant is perfect for making nasal drops.

So, you need its leaves. They should be washed and dried. After they need to be wrapped in paper and put in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, juice is squeezed out of aloe. Drops must be instilled three to four times a day. This should be done until all the symptoms of this disease disappear.

How to prepare drops with mumiyo for a prolonged runny nose?

In order to make a medicine, you will need a small amount of mountain oil and about 100 ml of warm water. Mix everything thoroughly. Bury three drops in each nasal passage. You can use peach oil instead of water. In this case, the tool will be more effective. They are prepared in a ratio of 1:5.

How to make a saline solution for washing the sinuses?

To prepare it, you need one glass of water. You will need to add a tablespoon of sea salt to it. Then mix the ingredients together. This must be done until all the salt has dissolved.

Then you can bury the drops in the nose. You can wash your sinuses up to 6-8 times a day. As a rule, this is done before dripping a vasoconstrictor drug into the nose.

How to prepare an herbal solution?

How to cure a prolonged runny nose in an adult with folk remedies? You can make a solution not only from sea salt, but also from chamomile. This herb has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. This type of solution is well suited for the treatment of protracted allergic rhinitis. In order to prepare it, you need a spoonful of salt and steamed infusion of chamomile.

Eucalyptus nasal wash

Essential oils are also good at fighting this ailment. So, to prepare such a solution, you need a glass of water. It is necessary to put one teaspoon of eucalyptus oil in it.

Use the last two types of solution only if you do not have an individual intolerance to any component of the product. Before use, consult a specialist.

Most adults in the cold season are characterized by such a phenomenon as a prolonged runny nose. When it appears, you can safely talk about the upcoming cold - this is one of the first characteristic signs. Often, rhinitis can occur on its own. Prolonged runny nose is considered to be a rhinitis that does not pass for two weeks. Only a person with strong immunity can bypass an unpleasant ailment. But what to do if a runny nose does not give rest, and the usual medicines do not give the desired results?

If an adult has a runny nose for a long period of time, then this may be due to several reasons:

  1. Accommodations. A sick person should pay attention to the main irritants - the presence of household dust at home. Or an allergic reaction of the body is provoked by a dust mite.
  2. Environmental influence. When working conditions include staying in a poorly ventilated room with a large accumulation of dust, then, therefore, chronic allergic rhinitis may develop.
  3. Often the cause of a prolonged runny nose is a constant stay in a room with very dry air. This mainly happens when the heating season begins.
  4. Autoimmune ailments (psoriasis, Wegener's granulomatosis).

Advice! To eliminate the main provocateur of a runny nose - dry air, which leads to dryness of the nasal mucosa, you should purchase a humidifier.

Otolaryngologists identify another important cause of a constant runny nose - congenital pathologies. As a result, problems begin with the regulation of mucus in the nasopharynx. This phenomenon leads to a curvature of the nasal septum.

Very rarely, a runny nose can be a consequence of hereditary ailments, in particular Kartagener's syndrome. The essence of the disease lies in the problematic functioning of the ciliated valve (it is thanks to it that mucus is removed). In case of violations, stagnant processes are observed, which lead to the accumulation of mucus not only in the nasopharynx, but also in the bronchi. As a result, a prolonged runny nose is accompanied by a cough with expectoration of yellow-green mucus.

medicinal rhinitis

One of the most common phenomena found among adults is drug-induced rhinitis. It arises as a result of the unreasonable use of therapy during colds, in particular vasoconstrictor nasal drops. However, drug runny nose can occur as a side effect after using antiviral drugs. Recognizing such rhinitis is very simple, it manifests itself as abundant transparent discharge, reminiscent of a common allergy. Additionally, nasal congestion may be observed.

It is important! Rebound runny nose - this is the name given to prolonged rhinitis, provoked by prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drugs. A similar result will be observed with overdoses of vasoconstrictor sprays.

Types of rhinitis

Before the patient begins treatment, it is necessary to find out what types of runny nose can be divided into. Two main types have been identified - allergic or, in other words, vasomotor and infectious, resulting from a cold. In both cases, the doctor will conduct an examination to determine the exact cause of persistent rhinitis. You should think about going to the doctor when a runny nose has been observed for more than ten days.

Four main types

Type of rhinitisMain characteristic
AllergicAccording to statistics, it has been established that almost a third of the adult population suffers from allergic manifestations of a seasonal nature. All this is due to environmental problems. The main provocateurs are pollen and flowering plants, animals
VasomotorThis type of rhinitis is very similar to allergic, but the main irritants are the smells of household chemicals, perfumes, and tobacco smoke. There is an irritating effect on the mucous membrane, which leads to an abundant secretion of mucus. Nasal sprays are mainly used as treatment.
medicalUncontrolled use of vasoconstrictor drugs leads to a prolonged runny nose. These drugs are often addictive.
During pregnancyDuring the period of bearing a child in the female body, hormonal changes occur, which can manifest itself in the form of a prolonged runny nose. If the excessive secretion of nasal mucus does not cause discomfort, then doctors do not recommend the use of medication. In extreme cases, you can resort to alternative treatment. In general, rhinitis will pass two weeks after delivery.

Note! Protracted rhinitis may occur after treatment with antidepressants, after taking hypertensive drugs and hormonal medications. TOnly an otolaryngologist can establish the exact cause.

How to cure a protracted runny nose quickly and without consequences

General measures include keeping the patient in bed, drinking plenty of fluids and using inhalations. Such measures are effective in the early stages, when rhinitis has not become chronic.

When the disease manifests itself more clearly (nasal congestion, copious secretion of mucus appeared) and progresses, it is recommended to use vasoconstrictor drops that can make breathing easier. Additionally, the doctor may prescribe the use of combined drugs. When the patient does not get better, antibiotics are mandatory. Their action can be supplemented by washing with special solutions and inhalations.

Therapy for the treatment of a protracted runny nose consists of several areas:

  1. Warming up the lower extremities with mustard baths.
  2. Carrying out herbal inhalations (for the best effect it is necessary to use essential oils).
  3. The use of natural juice for instillation of nasal passages (onion, aloe juice).
  4. Abundant drinking of immuno-strengthening herbal decoctions.
  5. Massage effect on the sinuses.
  6. The use of drug therapy.
  7. The use of physiotherapy.
  8. laser treatment.

Attention! Special care should be taken in the treatment of a protracted runny nose if the patient has chronic ailments. It is also very important to determine the correct therapy during pregnancy.

Medical treatment

To quickly cure protracted rhinitis, its cause should be established. In this case, you can not resort to self-medication, as this can aggravate the clinical picture.

During treatment, the patient must apply moisturizers. For example, in order to cleanse the sinuses, you can purchase drugs such as Aqualor or salin. Such preparations consist of sea water, which has a beneficial effect on the condition of the nasal mucosa.

If the patient has an abundant discharge of mucus and there is an inflammatory process, then it is recommended to use Coldrex or Koldakt. But, basically, vasoconstrictor drugs are used to eliminate prolonged rhinitis, unless the runny nose was provoked by the use of such drugs. The most effective is considered to be Nazivin, Xymelin, Nafazoline. In order not to be addictive, you should not use drops for more than one week.

If a patient has a prolonged runny nose accompanied by complications, then the otolaryngologist selects antibiotics. They are used in the form of aerosols. When the nature of the disease is viral in nature, then antibiotics are contraindicated. Used to treat chronic rhinitis Bioparox And Isofra.

What to do if prolonged allergic rhinitis?

First of all, the patient should visit an allergist and an otolaryngologist to establish the exact root cause of a prolonged runny nose. After this, the patient is assigned a series of studies, according to which the main allergen will be determined.

Antihistamines are the mainstay of treatment for chronic allergic rhinitis. Some of the most effective are Tsetrin And Loratadine. Auxiliary therapy can be the use of inhalations based on herbal preparations and essential oils.

Treatment with folk remedies

The basis of non-traditional treatment of a long runny nose in an adult is washing:

  1. The composition of eucalyptus, chamomile and calendula perfectly counteracts down the drain.
  2. With prolonged rhinitis, an iodine solution is used (a few drops of iodinol and a spoonful of salt are needed for a glass of water).

In parallel, other methods are used:

  1. Herbal inhalations (chamomile, oregano, linden).
  2. Natural drops from plant juice (kalanchoe, aloe, garlic).

Aloe drops

This plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, so it copes well with all types of rhinitis. In order to get rid of an annoying runny nose, you should prepare the simplest nasal drops:

  1. If there is a plant in the house, then its leaves will be required (cut off, washed and wiped dry).
  2. Then the leaves are wrapped in paper and sent for the whole night in the refrigerator.
  3. In the morning, the raw material is taken out and juice is squeezed out of it.
  4. Ready drops are instilled into the sinuses up to four times a day until the unpleasant symptoms go away.

Mummy against a lingering cold


As a rule, a runny nose after a cold lasts about two weeks. During this time, the amount, density and color of mucus may change, which indicates various changes in the body. If after two weeks the runny nose not only does not go away, but also intensifies, it is considered protracted. Thick, dark yellow or green mucus should be of particular concern. This means that the runny nose has moved from a viral infection to a bacteriological one.

Prolonged runny nose is dangerous because it can lead to complications and diseases of the lower respiratory tract. Prolonged runny nose is a risk of osteomyelitis, meningitis and even sepsis. If the runny nose does not go away, it often leads to otitis media and chronic diseases of the throat cavity. All this suggests that there is no need to give up on such a seemingly harmless symptom as a runny nose. He needs to be treated, and as soon as possible. But first it is worth understanding the reasons for its appearance.

Why does a runny nose linger

But why does a runny nose not go away in two weeks? Why does it develop into serious complications and a prolonged flow of mucus from the nose? There may be several reasons for this.

  1. Low immunity. Immunity can be weakened by a serious illness, poor nutrition, insufficient exercise. With such weak defenses, the body simply cannot cope with a runny nose.
  2. Latent infectious diseases. If all the forces of the body are aimed at fighting hidden infections or bacteria, a runny nose does not go away for a long time.
  3. Allergy. Often, a runny nose can simply be allergic.
  4. Adenoids. If you suffer from persistent runny noses and regular nasal congestion, you need to have your adenoids checked by a specialist. Enlarged adenoids very often cause not just prolonged, but chronic rhinitis.
  5. Hypothermia. The work of some people is associated with regular hypothermia - rescuers, divers, etc. In such conditions, a runny nose can also be delayed due to the fact that he simply does not have time to recover.
  6. Wrong treatment. A runny nose with a cold also requires treatment, but only competent. Simple washings, humid air and a sufficient amount of liquid will very quickly bring the nose in order. If you often and constantly use vasoconstrictor drops, this can lead to chronic drug-induced rhinitis.

An injury or deviated nasal septum can also cause a prolonged runny nose.

With a runny nose, the flow from the nose does not stop, especially in the open air and at low temperature. In addition, congestion is present, a person cannot breathe freely through his nose, the mucus becomes purulent, yellow or green. Often this is accompanied by a lack of smell, itching in the nose. In addition to this, the head hurts, sleep worsens, and rapid fatigue appears. Whatever the cause of a runny nose, you need to get rid of it, and as soon as possible.

How to get rid of a protracted allergic rhinitis

It often happens that a person is being treated for a cold, and a runny nose has an allergic cause. Allergic mucus is usually clear and thin, although it can sometimes be thick and rather yellow. In this case, you must first eliminate the allergen. Analyze what a runny nose can be associated with. Maybe you have a pet in your house, you have been given a new indoor flower, or you have started sleeping on a different pillow. Often a runny nose is seasonal - during the flowering period of many trees and plants. If it is not possible to identify the allergen, you can take allergy tests in a medical institution, which will accurately help you identify the source of irritation of the mucosa.

After eliminating the allergen, you need to drink a course of antihistamines. It is a course, not a one-time appointment. The fact is that after a long exposure to the allergen on the body, treatment is also required for a long time.

With frequent allergic rhinitis, you should pay attention to the condition of the intestine. Indeed, often the intestinal walls are responsible for immunity and the ability to resist various allergens. It is necessary to regularly cleanse the intestines, get rid of constipation. Try not to clean the room yourself, if possible. After all, excess dust can provoke the reappearance of a runny nose. Remove all things from the house that contain cotton wool and fluff, get rid of soft toys and old bedspreads, mattresses and blankets that collect dust. Wash your curtains more often. Store winter clothes in airtight bags, clean cobwebs regularly, and wet clean more often. Do not use household chemicals at home, regularly clean the filters of humidifiers and air conditioners.

How to cure a runny nose in an adult at home

To cure a runny nose, it must be treated. Do not abandon the treatment, even if you notice the first improvements - bring the matter to the end. Otherwise, the disease will return again. Our tips will help you get rid of a protracted runny nose at home.

  1. Washing. Ordinary washings are not only the cheapest, but also the most effective remedy for a runny nose, no matter how this runny nose is - protracted or just started. For washing, we need a small kettle and warm salt water (a teaspoon per liter of liquid). Flushing can be done over a sink, tub, or basin. Pour water into the kettle and put the spout to one of the nostrils. Slowly tilt your head to the side so that at a certain angle the liquid begins to pour out of the second nostril. Repeat the procedure with the other nostril. If the mucus with a runny nose is thick and yellow, you can add furatsilin to the water. It will disinfect the nasal passages and speed up recovery.
  2. Inhalations. Sometimes it happens that severe nasal congestion does not allow rinsing. In this case, you need to do inhalation. Pour hot water into a bowl and cover with a towel. Inhale hot air vapors and warm up the mucous membranes. To relieve swelling and open nasal breathing, add a drop of Asterisk balm to hot water. It is based on essential oils that will help you start breathing through your nose. You can do inhalations based on medicinal herbs - chamomile, calendula, sage.
  3. Compress. Make small cotton wicks and soak them in a weak solution of potassium permanganate and honey. Leave the wicks in your nose for half an hour. This is a fairly effective remedy if you do the procedure several times a day. Instead of potassium permanganate, cotton wool can be moistened in onion juice, garlic, saline.
  4. Nasal drops. Among the folk remedies for the treatment of a protracted runny nose, aloe, onions, garlic, Kalanchoe, and beets can be noted. Dilute the juice of the selected plant or vegetable with water and instill two drops in each nostril. Very effectively runny nose is treated with oils - almond, peach and sea buckthorn. To achieve an antiseptic effect, you can use a decoction of propolis.
  5. warming up. You can warm your nose and sinuses with two boiled eggs. Just put warm eggs on both sides of your nose and wait for a while. It is very convenient to warm the nose with salt. Heat the salt in a frying pan, pour it into a cloth bag or handkerchief and attach the bundle to your nose. However, remember that you can warm your nose only after consulting a doctor - if the mucous masses are purulent, warming up can aggravate the situation.

If you can't manage a runny nose on your own for a few days and don't see improvement after home treatment, see your doctor. The ENT will give you a correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.

Here are some medications that may be helpful for a runny nose. However, remember that they should be used only after consulting a doctor.

  1. Vasoconstrictor drops. Their reception is justified only in cases where a person cannot breathe normally and live from nasal congestion. Remember that such drops should not be used for more than five days, otherwise addiction may occur. These drugs can be presented in the form of sprays or drops. Among the most popular are Naphthyzinum, Sanorin, Vibrocil, Otrivin, etc.
  2. Salt solutions. These remedies are effective at the onset of the disease, they perfectly wash off the virus from the nasal mucosa, so they can also be used as a prophylactic. Absolutely safe even for children and pregnant women. This is Aquamaris, Dolphin, Snoop.
  3. Antibacterial agents. If the runny nose is of a bacterial nature, combined preparations are used - Polydex, Protorgol, Isofra, Collargol.
  4. General drugs. Sinupret, Sinuforte and Nasobek can be called as general remedies that can cope with a runny nose of any etiology.
  5. Antibiotics. To cure a protracted bacteriological rhinitis, antibiotics of a wide spectrum of action are often prescribed.

Self-medication is dangerous, it can lead to consequences. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking any medication.

If the body cannot overcome a runny nose, it means that the immune system is weakened. Along with local treatment, it is very important to do a general strengthening of the body. Drink vitamins, eat right and fully, spend more time in the fresh air. Rest more, try to get enough sleep, be less nervous. It is very important to regularly ventilate the room and provide humid air in the room. Harden the body so that later illnesses proceed easily and without complications. By following these simple rules, you can help your body defeat a protracted runny nose.

Video: how to treat a lingering runny nose

Chronic runny nose is a pathological condition of an infectious or allergic origin, complicating the course of the underlying disease. is a manifestation of various diseases, ranging from banal to serious, often incurable systemic ailments. This is a protective reaction of the body to the invasion of foreign agents - pathogenic microbes or allergens. Usually a runny nose worries a person for 7-10 days, and then goes away on its own or with the help of medicines. If rhinitis drags on and is accompanied by a violation of nasal breathing, discomfort in the projection of the paranasal sinuses, it is necessary to be seriously treated. Therapeutic measures for a prolonged runny nose are carried out in several directions at once.

Prolonged rhinitis occurs in three stages:

  • First stage lasts an average of five days. At this time, patients have no other signs of pathology. Liquid and transparent mucus constantly flows from the nose, requiring periodic blowing.
  • Second stage begins when the nature of the nasal secretion changes. Mucous discharge thickens and turns yellow. Patients develop cephalgia, stuffy ears, sore throat.
  • At the third stage a purulent greenish secret is removed with great difficulty. It fills the paranasal sinuses, which leads to development. The patient's voice becomes nasal and nasal, the sense of smell disappears, soreness of the cheeks and forehead appears.

It is believed that rhinitis, which responds well to therapy, resolves within a week in adults. In children and debilitated persons, this period may be extended up to fourteen days. Prolonged runny nose in most cases indicates the presence of serious diseases in the body.

Based on the results of laboratory and hardware studies, the doctor makes an accurate diagnosis and prescribes competent therapy. If the cause of the problem is chronic rhinitis caused by improper treatment, you should not worry. Such a disease is eliminated without much difficulty. More serious pathologies - purulent sinusitis or frontal sinusitis require professional treatment in a hospital under the supervision of a doctor.

Treating a runny nose is extremely important. If rhinitis is ignored, it will become protracted at first and then become chronic. To get rid of it and prevent the development of complications, you must be attentive to your health and follow all the instructions of your doctor.

Etiology

To cure a protracted runny nose, it is necessary to identify and eliminate its cause. Most often, the following internal and external factors lead to such a problem:

  1. Infectious diseases that have not received proper treatment,
  2. Allergic reactions to dust, food, plant pollen, household aerosols, perfume,
  3. Dusty and polluted air
  4. and other congenital pathologies of the olfactory organ,
  5. Dry indoor air during the heating season,
  6. Long-term use of nasal decongestants,
  7. Injuries to the nose of a mechanical, chemical or thermal nature,
  8. in children
  9. nasal polyposis,
  10. autoimmune diseases,
  11. Immunodeficiency.

Treatment with antidepressants and hormonal drugs can also lead to prolonged rhinitis.

During pregnancy, due to an imbalance of hormones, there is an excessive secretion of nasal mucus. If this does not interfere with the woman and does not cause discomfort, drug therapy is not carried out. The use of traditional medicine is allowed. After 10-14 days after childbirth, such rhinitis will pass on its own.

Symptoms

Symptoms of chronic rhinitis depend on its cause. Most often, a prolonged runny nose is the result of infection, allergies, and the abuse of decongestants.


Rhinitis in children develops quite often. However, there may be no associated symptoms. The child actively plays, eats and sleeps well, and pathological changes in the nasopharynx and sinuses are gradually increasing. A runny nose in a child, lasting two to three weeks, should alert parents and force them to visit a doctor. for thorough examination and treatment.

Complications

A prolonged runny nose, if untreated, is complicated, which can also lead to the development of negative consequences. With inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, the production of viscous mucus increases. It accumulates and gradually fills most of the sinus. As a result of the rapid multiplication of pathogenic microbes, the mucous secretion turns into pus. Patients complain of impaired nasal breathing, nasal congestion, pain in the projection of the affected sinus, impaired sense of smell, persistent subfebrile condition or even fever, weakness, loss of strength, lack of appetite, headache. If sinusitis is left untreated, the infection will quickly spread to surrounding tissues and organs. Perhaps the development of an abscess of the eyeball, meningitis, osteomyelitis, sepsis.

Diagnostics

Otorhinolaryngologists, allergists, immunologists are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of a protracted runny nose. They talk to the patient and examine him. The results of laboratory and instrumental studies are necessary for the diagnosis and prescribing of drugs.

  1. A fairly informative diagnostic method is rhinoscopy. Specialists study the state of the mucous membrane in the nose, reveal dystrophic changes, the nature of the discharge, the presence of crusts, hyperemia, erosions and ulcers.
  2. In the general blood test - an increase in ESR, signs of inflammation, eosinophilia.
  3. The discharge of the nasopharynx is examined under a microscope and inoculated on nutrient media if an infectious pathology is suspected. These studies are carried out in order to isolate the causative agent of infection and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics.
  4. Additional methods are radiographic or tomographic studies. They allow you to detect the level of fluid in the sinuses with sinusitis, polyps and neoplasms in the nose, foreign bodies, the consequences of traumatic injuries.

Treatment

If a runny nose lasts more than two weeks, is accompanied by a headache, soreness in the sinuses, hearing loss and stuffy ears, you need to visit an ENT doctor. Therapeutic measures for prolonged rhinitis are prescribed according to the general scheme. Patients undergo etiotropic, pathogenetic, symptomatic, immunomodulatory and restorative therapy. Equally important is the prevention of relapse.

Before proceeding with the immediate elimination of the problem, favorable conditions should be created for the patient: optimize the microclimate in the room, limit contacts with sick people, avoid stress factors, walk outside daily, get enough sleep, stop using vasoconstrictors, regularly lubricate the nasal mucosa with an oil solution, containing vitamins A and E. During the heating period, the air in the room must be humidified and drink enough liquid during the day.

Comprehensive treatment of prolonged rhinitis includes medication and physiotherapy, as well as the use of traditional medicine.

Medicines

The purpose of using pharmaceuticals is to restore nasal breathing, relieve inflammation and eliminate puffiness, and strengthen the vascular walls. All medicines are prescribed by the attending physician, taking into account the cause of the pathology and the general condition of the patient's body.

  • Vasoconstrictor nose drops - "Nazivin", "Vibrocil", "Rinonorm".
  • Systemic antibiotics - Klacid, Augmentin, Sumamed.
  • Local antibacterial agents - "Isofra", "Polydex".
  • Antiviral agents - "Viferon", "Cycloferon", "Grippferon".
  • Drops that moisturize the nasal mucosa - "Pinosol", "Rinofluimucil".
  • Homeopathic preparations - Euphorbium Compositum, Sinupret.
  • Antihistamine drops and sprays - Kromoheksal, Kromoglin.
  • Antiallergic drugs of general action - "Zodak", "Tavegil", "Suprastin".
  • Hormonal sprays - "Flixonase", "Tafen".
  • Saline solutions - Aqualor, Dolphin, Solin.
  • Vitamins C and P to strengthen the walls of blood vessels.
  • Immunomodulators - "Polyoxidonium", "Immunal".

Physiotherapy and surgery

Physiotherapy procedures are prescribed to patients when drugs do not help. Physiotherapy enhances the effect of medications, accelerates the process of recovery and restoration of lost functions. Such physical factors as ultrasound, current, heat, allow you to quickly achieve positive treatment results.

In diseases of the ENT organs, specialists usually prescribe:

  1. Inhalations with infusions of medicinal herbs, essential oils, mucolytic agents;
  2. acupuncture,
  3. Phonophoresis,
  4. electrophoresis,
  5. diathermy,
  6. laser therapy,
  7. UHF therapy,
  8. Massage of the bridge of the nose and infraorbital region,
  9. The use of ultrasound.

When conservative therapy for a prolonged runny nose does not give positive results, doctors decide to perform an operation. The choice of surgical tactics depends on the cause of the disorder. The most commonly performed are vasotomy, adenoidectomy, polypectomy, septoplasty and rhinoplasty. Cryosurgery gives a quick and lasting result. The mucous membrane in the nose is treated with liquid nitrogen, due to which the vessels narrow, and the runny nose disappears.

ethnoscience

Traditional medicine complements medical treatment well, but does not completely replace it. With a prolonged runny nose, phytocomplexes and medicinal herbs reduce nasal congestion and the amount of discharge from it.

  • If a runny nose does not go away for a long time in adults, it is useful to soar the legs. Sea salt, mustard or essential oils are added to the bath, and after the procedure, they put on woolen socks and go to bed.
  • At home, you can prepare effective drops with the right composition that do not have side effects. Aloe juice, Kalanchoe, cyclamen, beets, onions, diluted with water, can be dripped into the nose. Peach, sea buckthorn, olive oil lubricate the nose from the inside. All these drugs have an antiseptic effect, thin the thick nasal mucus, moisturize the mucous membrane, and strengthen the vascular wall.
  • Cotton-gauze turundas soaked in medicinal mixtures are introduced into the nose and left for 5-10 minutes.
  • When a runny nose torments for a long time, the nose must be washed. To do this, you can use saline, chamomile decoction, water with the addition of eucalyptus oil. The nose should be treated three times a day.
  • Lemon, rosehip, raspberry, linden and St. John's wort have a general strengthening effect on the body. Infusions and decoctions of these plants are taken orally and used topically, washing the nose with them.
  • All bee products do an excellent job with chronic rhinitis. Cotton swabs are soaked with propolis oil and injected into the nose.
  • Inhalations over boiled potatoes or hot water with aromatic oils restore nasal breathing and alleviate the general condition of patients. It helps to inhale the vapors of chopped garlic or onions. The use of an aroma lamp is no less effective.
  • Local thermal manipulations for warming the nasal sinuses - applying a bag of salt to the bridge of the nose, heating the sinuses with a blue lamp.
  • Currently, breathing exercises are very popular. The patient alternately clamps the left and right nostrils, taking deep breaths and exhalations.

Preventive actions

To prevent the development of a protracted runny nose, experts recommend following simple rules:

  1. temper,
  2. Walk outside daily
  3. Eat rationally, enrich the diet with fresh vegetables and fruits,
  4. Take a multivitamin
  5. Exercise regularly,
  6. Ventilate the room and humidify the air in it,
  7. Limit contact with allergens,
  8. To refuse from bad habits,
  9. Timely and fully treat colds,
  10. Avoid hypothermia and drafts,
  11. Lead a measured life.

Prolonged rhinitis, even in the absence of concomitant symptoms, requires a visit to a doctor. A prolonged runny nose is not a diagnosis, but a symptom of a chronic illness that can only be cured by a qualified specialist. Self-medication is rarely effective and unsafe. The doctor, having determined the cause of this problem, will prescribe an adequate complex treatment that will save the patient from unpleasant symptoms.

Video: treatment of the common cold in children - Dr. Komarovsky

A runny nose is a sure guide to colds. This is one of the body's ways to get rid of pathogenic microflora. Rhinitis should last no more than 10 days. If this period has passed, and the patient has difficulty breathing and discomfort in the paranasal sinuses, then you should contact a specialist.

A protracted illness in an adult requires no less attention than a prolonged runny nose in a child.

Causes

In order to properly treat the disease, it is necessary to find the causes. It can be:

  • allergic rhinitis of various origins;
  • dry air - the optimum level of humidity is 50-70%;
  • incorrect or incomplete treatment of an infectious disease;
  • curvature of the nasal septum;
  • side effect of long-term use of vasoconstrictor drugs;
  • enlarged adenoids in children.

If a person is in favorable conditions of humidity and did not tolerate the disease, then it is worth considering the possibility of an allergy. The following symptoms scream about her - nasal congestion, sneezing and profuse lacrimation. They occur suddenly and are not treated with traditional methods.

Prolonged rhinitis can develop into sinusitis. In this case, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses occurs: mucus accumulates in them, microbes multiply, and pus forms. A person suffers from nasal congestion, his sense of smell worsens, his temperature rises (from 37 ° C and above), weakness, loss of appetite, swelling and headache are observed.

Sinusitis that is not completely cured can have serious consequences:

  • abscess of the eyeball and loss of vision;
  • spread of infection throughout the body, damage to other organs, sepsis;
  • the occurrence of diseases of the lower respiratory tract;
  • osteomyelitis;
  • meningitis.

How to get rid of a lingering cold

Proper treatment is possible only after establishing the cause. It should consist of eliminating the prerequisites for the disease, local medicinal effects, strengthening immunity and various preventive measures.

It is necessary to create favorable environmental conditions: regularly ventilate and humidify the air in the apartment, walk more often, relax, get enough sleep, try not to delve into negative emotions and not expose the body to stress. You should regularly engage in physical education, use multivitamins, eat well in order to strengthen the body. If the runny nose is caused by an allergy, then it is necessary to stop or limit contact with the irritating substance.

Pour hot and cold water over your nose every day. Over time, the temperature of the water is lowered. The local hardening procedure has a great effect on the immune system and reduces the duration of the common cold during the period of illness.

The best remedy for a cold

Features of the use of drugs depend on the cause and type of rhinitis, as well as its severity. Treatment of sinusitis and prolonged runny nose must be accompanied by the supervision of an ENT doctor. It should restore the functioning of the nasal mucosa, strengthen blood vessels, relieve inflammation in the paranasal sinuses.

Vasoconstrictor drops or sprays are usually prescribed if the runny nose is of an infectious nature: otrivin, galazolin, nazivin, vibrocil, sanorin, naphthyzinum. Their use is effective if the discharge is abundant and colorless. If they are thick and few, then it is worth buying antibacterial drugs, such as polydex, or moisturizing saline solutions, like aquamaris.

Prolonged runny nose, which is a consequence of allergies, requires the use of antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Clarinase, Allergodil. These modern drugs do not have the usual side effects: drowsiness, disorientation, headache.

The alternation of sinuforte and nasobek preparations can give a positive result in the treatment of prolonged rhinitis. You can use synupret tablets. It will help relieve puffiness. Use flixonase to wash your nose. Of the antibiotics, augmentin, ceftriaxone, amoxiclav are prescribed.

In cases where it is not possible to establish the exact nature of the common cold, you can try to use combined preparations: delofen, protargol, isophra, collargol. They help with rhinitis of various origins, as they combine antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and drying properties.

Treatment with folk methods

Be sure to consult your doctor before using folk remedies. You can bury the following substances:

  • onion juice and aloe, diluted with water;
  • Kalanchoe juice;
  • beet juice and aloe with water;
  • weak solution of cyclamen juice;
  • Peach oil;

Dilute half a teaspoon of soda and salt in a glass of water, then dissolve a diphenhydramine tablet (0.05 g) in 10 ml of the resulting liquid and pour in 20 drops of propolis tincture. Bring the mixture to a boil, cool and drip every hour 4 drops into each nasal passage. Reduce the frequency of drops as soon as your condition improves.

Washing the nose helps to eliminate pathogenic microflora. This can be done using a special device, for example, the drug Dolphin, as well as independently, using a teapot or pipette. It is worth pouring liquid into one nasal passage so that it flows out of the other, cleansing the mucous membrane. The procedure is carried out several times a day, using therapeutic solutions:

  • chamomile - one tablespoon of salt is dissolved in a glass of chamomile infusion;
  • salt - half a tablespoon of sea salt is dissolved in half a glass of water;
  • eucalyptus - one teaspoon of eucalyptus oil is dissolved in a glass of water.

With the help of a special apparatus, you can carry out inhalations or simply breathe over the steam, covered with a towel. It is better to use medicinal plants to which you are not allergic: oils of eucalyptus, fir, juniper, anise, tea tree, thyme, decoctions of sage and mint, finely chopped onion, garlic, horseradish. All of them have a disinfecting and moisturizing effect and relieve swelling of the nasal mucosa.

Soak cotton swabs with medicinal mixtures and insert into the nasal passages for 5-10 minutes. As healing solutions can serve:

  • saline;
  • honey with slightly diluted potassium permanganate;
  • a mixture of juices of beets, carrots, onions, aloe and honey in equal proportions.

Physiotherapy and surgery

  • Cardinal measures should be applied if a runny nose lasts several months and drug treatment does not bring results. There is a variety of modern methods of treatment of protracted rhinitis:
  • Cryosurgery. The nasal membrane is treated with liquid nitrogen. It contributes to its compaction and narrowing of blood vessels. After such treatment, you can forget about the common cold for several years.
  • laser therapy. The mucous membrane of the nose is treated with a laser beam, which destroys damaged blood vessels, leaving only healthy ones. This allows you to get rid of rhinitis forever, removing puffiness and restoring breathing.
  • Intranasal blockade. The drug is administered into the sinuses by injection.
  • Punctures, pumping out purulent masses, washing the sinuses with a vacuum device are the most effective procedures for sinusitis.
  • Heating with UV radiation and diathermy are used in complex therapy.
  • Massage and breathing exercises alleviate the condition with chronic rhinitis. It is carried out by tapping the phalanx of the thumb on the bridge of the nose and the area around the orbit for 2-3 minutes every half hour. These points are also massaged for half a minute.

You can use a special ebonite disk to massage the entire face. For 10 minutes, you should move the disk clockwise, making one revolution per second. Breathing exercises will help improve blood circulation in the nasal cavity. To do this, alternately breathe one or the other nostril for 5 seconds 10 times.

Do not bring a runny nose to a chronic state in order to avoid unpleasant consequences. You can get rid of prolonged rhinitis or sinusitis by starting complex treatment on time.