Runny nose: good habits and remedies 

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Extract from the article: A runny nose is a common complaint among children and adults alike in cooler weather. However, this inconvenience lasts several days and is often a source of discomfort. Here are some natural tips to speed up the healing process.

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A runny nose is a common complaint among children and adults alike in cooler weather. However, this inconvenience lasts several days and is often a source of discomfort. Here are some natural tips to speed up the healing process.

This commonplace phenomenon, known as rhinorrhea, is caused by excess mucus running down the nose in response to an allergy. Initially, the discharge is clear and transparent. After a few days, it thickens and turns brown, yellow or green. This is usually a sign of infection or clotted blood.

A runny nose can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, persistent cough, sore throat, sneezing, blocked nose and reduced olfactory capacity. The causes, however, are very diverse: sinusitis, colds, allergies, flu. Smoking can also cause a runny nose.

Healthy living

Washing your hands should be a habit, as this little gesture helps to get rid of bacteria and viruses. Otherwise, use a hydroalcoholic gel. In addition, if you have a runny nose, use a single-use handkerchief or clean the cloth wipe every day. For children under 5 who don't yet know how to blow their nose, clean their nose with saline solution.

Nutrition

Eating fresh fruit and vegetables, for example, is essential for good health.Opt for cabbage, sweet potatoes and bananas.  Garlic and ginger are recognized for their antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal action. They also maintain a healthy respiratory system and help balance the body's natural defenses.

Honey has antioxidant properties.It relieves sore throats and sanitizes the respiratory tract.Citrus fruits, such as lemons, grapefruits and oranges, are rich in vitamin C. They boost immunity and help the body overcome illness.

If you have a runny nose, cut down on deli meats, fatty meats, saturated fats and sugar.At the same time, limit processed foods, refined products and alcohol.

Drinks

Hot broths are ideal for nasal discharge. The steam decongests the nose and the drink rehydrates the respiratory tract.In fact, health professionals recommend drinking much more than usual during this phase.You can choose from a wide range of beverages: herbal tea, fruit juice or vegetable soup.

Essential oils

If you have a runny nose, essential oils are an effective remedy for speeding up the healing process.In addition to clearing the respiratory tract, they also relieve other symptoms. The most widely used are: peppermint oil (forbidden for under-12s); eucalyptus globulus or radiata oil (contraindicated for children under 6 and pregnant women); ravintsara oil.Essential oils can also be inhaled. Simply pour two drops of the product of your choice into a bowl of boiling water to unblock your nose. Don't forget to cover your head with a towel while holding the bowl to block the vapors.For those in a hurry, add a few drops to a handkerchief and breathe deeply.

Warm water compress

A compress or towel soaked in hot water can also be placed on the forehead or nose to clear the sinuses.At the same time, it's essential to rest if you want to recover as quickly as possible. Remove the compress as it cools. Repeat this procedure several times a day.

If symptoms persist after a few days, consult a healthcare professional.

Abel OZIH

Article validated by Doctor Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner at the « Floreal » Clinic in Lomé.