How to Get Your Nose to Stop Running With Allergies

A runny nose can be annoying when your allergies flare up, but thankfully it be alleviated by taking allergy medication and using saline nasal sprays daily. Although medications are helpful at reducing the frequency of your runny nose and other allergy symptoms, they will not permanently rid you of your condition. Use inexpensive over-the-counter medications, and contact your doctor if your problems persist or worsen after one week of treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Corticosteroids (oral or nasal)
• Decongestants (oral or nasal)
• Antihistamines

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a nasal spray two times a day. Nasal sprays are a type of corticosteroid that reduces inflammation---the main cause of a runny nose, congestion and sneezing. Carefully read the medication label, as some nasal sprays can worsen your condition when used longer than instructed.

• 2

  Take oral corticosteroids. Oral corticosteroids can only be obtained from your physician, due to the health complications that can occur if taken long-term. The medication is often a week-long regimen with four to five pills taken the first day, followed by lower amounts as the week progresses.

• 3

  Take a daily antihistamine. Antihistamines block allergens from attaching to your histamine receptor sites, thereby blocking allergic reactions from occurring. In order to reduce allergy flare-ups, medication should be taken every 12 to 24 hours, as directed on the medication package.

• 4

  Use an oral or nasal decongestant. Decongestants also help reduce inflammation, which allows for easier breathing and reduces runny nose and other allergy symptoms. They come in the form of pills and nasal sprays, and can be purchased without a prescription.