How To Treat Your Dogs Runny Nose
If your dogs nasal discharge is clear and watery and if your pet is acting fine , then Werber says there is no need to panic.
As a general rule of thumb, Sansolo says to be on the lookout for drainage that is not clear, such as white, yellow, green or bloody discharge.
If the nose is bleeding, you should hold a tissue, soft cloth, or even a towel to the nose, and hold the head back to try and control the bleeding and get to your veterinarian or an emergency facility as soon as possible, Werber says.
Normal, clear discharge will most likely dissipate on its own, Sansolo says, however, it is important to pay attention to your pets individual symptoms and seek veterinary attention when appropriate.
Every dog is different, just like every person, she says. Whenever you notice something out of the ordinary for your dog it is never wrong to have your veterinarian take a look.
Why Does Running Make My Nose Run
It sounds like the setup to a really corny joke: Every time I run, my nose runs, too! But it’s a real nuisance for runny-nosed runners — including TODAY’s own Kathie Lee Gifford, who wondered aloud on Wednesday’s broadcast why jogging left her congested and miserable. So what’s going on?
It’s called exercise-induced rhinitis, and it’s a lot like allergic rhinitis — also called hay fever or nasal allergies. For the unlucky people with EIR, as it’s called, a good workout triggers allergy symptoms: congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itchiness, general misery.
Just like regular allergies, exercise-induced rhinitis is common among both “real” and recreational athletes — whether they have an underlying nasal allergy or not , according to a 2006 report. And you’re not imagining things: rhinitis symptoms are more common in the winter, the lead author of that study, Dr. William Silvers of the Allergy Asthma & Immunology Clinic of Colorado, said in an email. It’s more common in people who exercise outdoors, but it can also happen indoors, Silvers says.
Of course, runners aren’t the only ones who have respiratory problems triggered by physical exertion — swimmers, divers, boxers, skiers and figure skaters get similar symptoms. Interestingly, exercise-induced asthma is disproportionately seen in Winter Olympic athletes, reported a 2010 New York Times blog post.
Underlying Causes Of A Runny Nose You May Not Have Considered
A runny nose usually means a cold or the flu. If its not a viral respiratory infection it could be an environmental irritant. A runny nose could even be an allergic reaction to pollen or sensitivity to chemicals or fumes at work. Even exposure to cigarette smoke can stuff you up and dial your nose to the drip setting.
There are, however, a wide range of conditions that share arunny nose as a symptom. When theres no immediate reason or when your tissue habit wont ease up, its time to visit the runny nose specialists.
Dr. Alexis Furze and his team can thoroughly investigate your symptoms, and help you find relief from rhinitis . It doesnt matter if the cause of your condition is common or obscure, Dr. Furze is here to help.
Here are five of the less obvious reasons you may be sniffling.
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Why Does Your Nose Run When Youre Sick
That’s your immune system working
ByAlexandra Ossola | Published Jan 27, 2016 11:39 PM
At this time of year, it can feel like everyone around you has a head cold. Decongestant medicine, tissues, and runny noses close in on all sides. But why does your nose run in the first place?
The answer lies in the way your nose combats disease. The nose is a complex organit warms and modifies air as it comes into your body, and acts as a gatekeeper against the external environment, says Stella Lee, a professor of otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. That means its a major battleground for the immune system as it works to protect your body from invading disease.
Even when youre not sick, your nose is lined with mucus. It traps disease-causing bacteria and viruses that might infect you if they reach more vulnerable body tissues. A layer of ciliathose hair-like structures that cover the interior of your nosemoves that mucus from the front of your nasal passages towards the back and down your throat.
How Can I Stop My Nose From Running When I Eat
Research suggests the simplest way to stop your nose from running when you eat is to eliminate trigger foods. While not an allergy, a nasal spray may also help.
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You would not take the usual allergy medications for this problem, however there is an effective nasal spray called nasal ipratropium, instructs Dr. Voigt. This prescription medicine is available in 0.3% or 0.6% solutions relieves a runny nose. You spray it into your nose to stop the glands from producing a large amount of fluid.
The good news is that gustatory rhinitis is not serious and is unlikely to be a sign of something more serious going on . If you have chronic nasal drainage, especially if it is coming mostly out of one nostril, whether you eat or not, it could be a sign of something more serious that needs to be further evaluated by a doctor, shares Dr. Elliott.
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When Should I Contact A Healthcare Provider To Treat A Runny Nose
A runny nose will typically go away on its own. However, a healthcare provider should be contacted if:
- The symptoms continue for more than 10 days and there is no improvement.
- Symptoms are severe or unusual.
- Drainage from your young childs nose comes from only one side and is green, bloody or foul-smelling, or if you have other reason to believe there may be a foreign object stuck in their nose.
Your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination to make sure the runny nose is not a symptom of a more serious condition.
Runny Nose Can Have A Variety Of Causes
- Allergies: The older you get, there is a smaller chance that allergies are the cause.
- Food: An increased runny nose caused by eating food, particularly highly seasoned foods is called gustatory rhinitis. Cold air may also be a trigger.
- Medication: More than 400 brand name drugs list rhinitis as a side effect. Older patients are frequently being treated for a variety of medical conditions which can result in that incessant dripping from your nose.
- Sprays can cause symptoms with overuse which many of us tend to do while fighting a cold. Older people are at particular risk because they tend to have preexisting thinning and dryness of the nasal mucosa.
- Some blood pressure-lowering drugs: Clonidine, guanethidine, propranolol, prazosin, hydralazine, and diuretics may cause nasal obstruction.
- Estrogen: Your estrogen level may also increase nasal airway resistance and runny nose. Think menopause and pregnancy.
- Anti-inflammatories: Aspirin and medications like ibuprofen are well-known triggers of bronchospasm in patients with nasal polyps and asthma. They can also cause severe rhinitis in asthmatics with and without associated polyps.
- Psychiatric drugs and Viagra: Drugs likely to be used by older people have resulted in rhinitis.
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What Causes Nasal Discharge In Dogs
As in humans, there are a variety of reasons why a dogs nose might run, including irritants, allergies and infections.
Since canines are low to the ground and explore with their nose, they tend to inhale things that we don’t typically get exposed to walking at our level, says Dr. Stephanie Liff of Pure Paws Veterinary Clinic. Over time, some of these things can irritate their nasal cavities and cause a runny nose.
Dust, smoke, incense, perfume and cleaning products, are among the types of environmental irritants that can cause nasal discharge. Allergies to pollen, mold, etc. may also be to blame. In general, however, upper respiratory infections and over activity are among the most common reasons a dogs nose will run.
Viral and bacterial infections often occur together as a part of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex , says Dr. Morgan Tannenbaum of Regency Veterinary Clinic in Boca Raton, Florida. Symptoms of these upper respiratory infections often include nasal discharge. They are also considered contagious, he says, so infected dogs should be isolated for two or more weeks.
A less serious type of nasal discharge develops because dogs cannot regulate their body temperature through their skin like people. Instead, they secrete sweat from the pads of their feet and their noses to cool down, says Dr. Jenna Sansolo of Ardsley Veterinary Associates.
It Could Just Be Allergies
Allergies may be at blame for your dogs runny nose. Dogs can have allergies to certain foods, fleas, or environmental allergens. A runny nose and clear nasal discharge in your dog may indicate environmental allergies.
Most of the time, allergies are relatively mild and easily treated. The first step is to eliminate the symptoms by removing the offending allergen from the dogs surroundings. Understanding the symptoms of allergies is a prerequisite to treating them. Other canine allergy signs include sneezing, itching, or excessive licking.
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Quick Dose: Why Does The Cold Weather Make My Nose Run
Chilly air means sniffly noses. When we breathe in, our noses warm the air and add moisture to it as it travels down into our lungs. Cold, dry air irritates your nasal lining, and as a result, your nasal glands produce excess mucus to keep the lining moist. That can cause those big, heavy drops that drip from your nostrils. Wearing a scarf in cold weather can help, because the air warms before it hits your nose.
A runny nose is one of the most typical symptoms of the common cold. We are more likely to pick up a cold in the winter because we spend more time inside, and germs are able to survive longer in dry air. Were exposed to millions of germs every day that linger on doorknobs, keyboards and phones.
Frequent handwashing, cleaning surfaces at home and work, sneezing or coughing into your elbow, and staying home when youre sick are key to avoid picking up and spreading germs.
If a runny nose is bothersome, ask your physician about some over-the-counter remedies.
Deborah S. Clements, MD, Northwestern Medical Group, Family Medicine
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Instead Of Blowing Your Nose:
- Hold a tissue or hankie under your nose to blot whats running out. This more gentle treatment may help you begin to dry up.
- Minimize nasal irritation. Avoid putting anything in your nose other than prescribed medication and saline.
- Humidification: Sit in a steam room or shower. Use a clean humidifier in the bedroom.
- Eat spicy foods to stimulate mucus production.
- Stay hydrated with non-caffeinated beverages being dehydrated can aggravate your symptoms.
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Why Does My Nose Run When Im Cold
Your nose heats up and moisturizes the air you breathe into your lungs. This process destroys bacteria and irritants, as well as regulates air temperature in order to protect your lungs from damage by cold.
Cold air holds less moisture than warm air. So when you breathe it in, it can quickly dry out your airways and expose you to more irritants.
This stimulates your nasal tissues to create more mucus and fluid to keep your nose moist and protect your airways. Excess mucus and fluid then drain out of your nose.
When a cold virus enters your body, the body produces a substance called histamine, a compound that results in protective inflammation that also causes more mucus production in your nose.
This is beneficial for several reasons:
- Mucus in your nose can help capture external irritants or bacteria that can get into your body and make you more sick while youre dealing with a viral infection. The more mucus, the more irritants it can capture.
- Mucus buildup acts as an extra layer of protection for your nasal tissue, preventing bacteria or viral matter from entering your body through your nasal cavity, sinuses, or blood vessels.
- Mucus draining from your nose carries infectious bacteria and other irritants out of your body, helping reduce inflammation from exposure to both of these things.
They Sniff A Lot Of Stuff
As you are probably aware, dogs are curious animals, and they use their noses to satisfy their curiosity. Dogs have super-nose powers because of their astounding sense of smell and frequently use it to explore their surroundings. Theyll sniff just about anything to gain additional knowledge about commonplace items and better understand their physical surroundings.
Although a dogs sense of smell is a tremendous tool, it can occasionally cause problems. Due to all the sniffing, a dogs nose may become clogged with foreign items . Due to this, dogs may then experience nasal discharge, general discomfort, and nosebleeds. Its better to get this checked as soon as possible if you think your dogs runny nose is caused by an object lodged in their nasal tube. The foreign object may cause infection or worse if it is not removed.
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Preventing A Runny Nose
A runny nose cant always be prevented, but with the right precautions, you can decrease the chances of developing one. To prevent a runny nose, its important to prevent potential irritants that could inflame your nasal passages. For example, if you have a known allergy, try to avoid exposure to that allergen so your nose doesnt start to run. You can also take allergy medication preventatively before the exposure.
Preventing illnesses like the common cold is another way to prevent a runny nose. Doctors recommend practicing routine, thorough hand washingespecially before eating or touching your face. Its also helpful to avoid contact with anyone who might be sick.
Why Is Mucus An Important Part Of The Airway System
Mucus is needed to keep your airway moist and working properly. Not only does mucus stop harmful particles from getting into your lungs, but it also contains antibodies to help destroy bacteria. If too much mucus is produced, your body wants to get rid of it, leading to coughing and spitting the extra mucus out and blowing it out of your nose.
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How A Vet Can Help
Make a vet appointment right away if your dogs runny nose is causing you any concern. Quickly mentioning symptoms will aid your veterinarian in making a precise diagnosis. Early diagnosis enables therapy to begin earlier, allowing your dog to experience immediate relief. The veterinarian will typically check your dogs medical history, perform a physical examination, and consider all symptoms when you bring your dog in.
To aid in an accurate diagnosis at this time, your veterinarian might prescribe a variety of tests. For instance, to identify the cause of the problem, x-rays, lab tests, or other procedures might be prescribed. Your doggies vet might take a sample of your dogs nasal discharge and evaluate it for any indicators of a particular medical issue. This sample can be examined to check for any possible bacterial or fungal illnesses that could be the source of your dogs runny nose.
What May Help Clear Up A Runny Nose
There are several things you can try at home to help clear up a runny nose.
- Use a nasal spray or rinse: Saline nasal sprays are available OTC. They can help clear out your nasal passages. You can also make your own saline nasal rinse at home.
- Try an OTC decongestant: If you have nasal congestion along with your runny nose, an OTC decongestant can help reduce inflammation and pressure. Examples include Sudafed and Afrin.
- Take an OTC antihistamine:OTC antihistamines work to relieve allergy symptoms like runny nose, itching, and sneezing. Examples include Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec.
- Use an intranasal corticosteroid: These are medications that you spray into your nose. They may help ease allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Some that are available OTC include Nasacort and Flonase.
- Drink water:Drinking enough water can help keep your nasal mucus thin and easier to clear from your nose.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture to the air and may help keep nasal mucus thin.
- Avoid triggers: If you know that specific things trigger your symptoms, try to avoid them.
- Blow your nose frequently: Gently blowing your nose into a tissue can help clear excess mucus from your nasal passages.
While a runny nose will often go away with at-home care, there are some signs that it may be time to make an appointment with your doctor. These include:
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How Should I Sleep With A Runny Nose
Elevating your head during the night makes it easier for your nose and sinuses to drain. This is important because at night mucus pools in the head, making it harder to breathe and potentially causing a sinus headache in the morning. Try elevating the head on a few pillows to help the sinuses drain more easily.
Prolonged Use Of Nasal Sprays
Using nasal decongestant sprays for prolonged periods can dry out the nasal airways and lead to the formation of sores. Overuse may also have a rebound effect, in which the body produces even more nasal secretions. This may increase inflammation in the nasal tissue.
What to do: You should ideally only use medicated nasal sprays for up to 5 days. You can swap these for natural, hypertonic saline solutions, which are hypertonic and often made with sea water.
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