General practice·General practice
Runny nose
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A runny nose is when fluid drains from your nose. It can be thin and clear, or thick and coloured. It happens when the inside of your nose makes extra mucus to help clean out germs, allergens (things you are allergic to), or irritants.
Key facts
- Most runny noses get better on their own within a week or two.
- A runny nose can be caused by colds, allergies, or irritants like smoke.
- Seeing coloured mucus does not always mean you have a bacterial infection.
Yes, a runny nose is very common. Almost everyone has one at some point, especially during cold and flu season.
It can affect people of all ages. Children get more colds and runny noses because their immune systems are still building up defences. People with allergies or asthma may have runny noses more often.