A runny nose can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections — such as the common cold and influenza — allergies and various irritants may all cause a runny nose. Some people have a chronically runny nose for no apparent reason — a condition called nonallergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis.

Less commonly, a runny nose can be caused by polyps, a foreign body, a tumor or migraine-like headaches.

Causes of a runny nose include:

1. Acute sinusitis (sinus infection)
2. Allergies
3. Chronic sinusitis
4. Churg-Strauss syndrome
5. Common cold
6. Decongestant nasal spray overuse
7. Deviated septum
8. Dry air
9. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's granulomatosis)
10. Hormonal changes
11. Influenza (flu)
12. Lodged object
13. Medicines, such as those used to treat high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, depression, seizures and other conditions
14. Nasal polyps
15. Nonallergic rhinitis (chronic congestion or sneezing not related to allergies)
16. Occupational asthma
17. Pregnancy
18. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
19. Spinal fluid leak
20. Tobacco smoke

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March 21, 2019