Runny nose with a respiratory problem

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Runny nose with a respiratory problem

A runny nose may be a symptom of a cold, allergy, or sinus infection (sinusitis). Occasionally an object in the nose causes the nose to run.

Colds

A runny nose from a cold is often accompanied by a low fever, cough, and a scratchy throat. Nasal drainage usually is clear but may change to yellow as the cold goes away. If you seem to be getting better, the color of the drainage is not a concern.

Allergies

Drainage from a runny nose caused by allergies is usually clear. Your nose may itch. Sneezing and watery eyes may also be present. In addition, you may have dark circles under your eyes ("allergic shiners").

Sinus infection

A runny nose with thick drainage that isn't getting better after 10 days or a very thick yellow drainage when you also have fever can be a sign of sinus infection (sinusitis). You may also have pain in the forehead or cheek bones, a cough, and an upset stomach when a sinus infection is present.

Credits

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Updated	February 25, 2008

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Last updated:	February 25, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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