Nose runs all the time

[sniffATT]

Hi

I'm new to this site - hope I am posting this correctly. I have asthma and I also think I have hay fever - but this has never been diagnosed, I tend to get problems with itchy eyes and throat around April/May time and this is helped by taking antihistamines.
The problem I would really like a solution too is my constantly runny nose, I am sniffing all the time - hence my blog name sniffATT This does seem to get worse after eating but I have not found a solution. Can anyone help?

[Dr Joanna Lukawska]

Hi

Symtoms of runny nose, itchy eyes and throat make allergic cause very likely, April/May would suggest tree pollens.
You also describe runny nose throughout the year, which may or may not be related to common allergens, which persist in our environment regardless of the season such as house dust mite or pet dander. Your perennial symptoms appear slightly different to your seasonal hay fever and the only way to make an accurate diagnosis is to test you (skin prick or blood test). Does your runny nose improve when you take antihistamines? Have you tried topical steroid nasal sprays (you can get these over the counter)? Try using the above, topical steroid spray with or without a daily non drowsy type antihistamine and see if it helps. You could also try nasal douching (washing the nasal passages with saline solution, again several types available over the counter). In due course your family doctor may wish to make a referral to a specialist for testing and treatment if required.

Best wishes,

Joanna