A runny nose can be caused many different things, so finding a good remedy depends on the cause. The condition of having a runny nose is actually the blood vessels in the nose producing excess fluid and mucous in an attempt to protect it from some outside irritant.
The most common cause of a runny nose is a cold or flu. The runny nose is a part of the body’s natural protective process. I such a case, the only way of how to stop a runny nose is to let the cold or flu run its course. Some cold medications that have ingredients with antihistamine properties may work to stop production of the mucous. I an infection is involved, then the antibiotics will eventually kill the infection and the runny nose will stop from that.
Another common cause for a runny nose is an allergy. The nose reacts to allergins that are breathed in by the allergic person. These allergins can be items like pet dander, dust, pollen, mold, mildew, flowers, ragweed, and a few other things. When allergies are the cause of the runny nose, it is a good idea for the individual to get away from the irritant if such is known. Saltwater nasal sprays may also be used to moisten the nasal passages. In addition, antihistamines will block the allergic reaction temporarily. Those are the best ways of how to stop a runny nose caused by an allergic reaction.
Some people who have addictions to drugs suffer from a constant runny nose. This usually occurs because of damages to the nasal membranes. However, the runny nose may also be caused by withdrawal symptoms. In order to stop this kind of runny nose, the user would need to stop taking drugs. The faster that he or she stops putting things into his or her nose, the faster the nose will start operating better. Saltine mists and humidifiers can be used to put some of the lubrication back into the membranes and reduce any swelling that may exist.
Hormonal changes can also greatly affect things that happen in the nose. For example, while a woman is pregnant she may have a nose that runs constantly. She may also have changes in the color of her nose. Certain birth control pills may cause adverse effects like this as well. The pregnancy runny nose will perhaps resolve itself after the baby is born. Pill induced runny nose can be controlled by changing the brand of birth control or choosing an alternate method.