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Our Experts: Persistently Runny Nose
Is a runny nose a sign of a more serious health problem? Family GP,
Dr Sue Morrison, offers some advice.
Raisingkids member's problem
My 5 year-old always seems to have a
runny nose although she seems to be in good health otherwise. What causes
the secretion of excessive phlegm, and can you suggest anything to cure
it?
Dr Morrison's advice
Phlegm (or mucous) is a sticky fluid,
mainly composed of the complex starches that the body produces in response
to irritation and/or inflammation of tissues, especially in the airways
and to a lesser extent in the bowel and genital areas. Cough, colds and
bronchitis are examples of respiratory tract infections, and asthma and
smoking are examples of irritations. Mucous is formed in goblet cells
which are incorporated in the lining of some parts of the body, as mentioned.
A natural way to reduce phlegm build-up is cutting out dairy products
for at least three weeks (this means anything from a cow such as milk,
cheese, butter, yoghurt). Replace them with sheep, goat or soya equivalents.
Steam inhalations twice a day, with menthol or eucalyptus oil, can clear
mucous from air and earways.
Over-the-counter remedies can relieve blocked airways temporarily, but
at the expense of symptoms returning worse than before when you stop taking
them. But first of all, a diagnosis as to the exact cause of your child's
excess mucous needs to be made, so it's wise to see a GP.
Please note:
The medical and health-related information on this site is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. In the event of any physical or mental condition, seek the advice of a qualified doctor or other health professional without delay. Do not postpone medical treatment while awaiting a response from this site.
In an emergency always call 999 (UK only).
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