COVID-19 Symptom: Runny Nose

• A runny nose is a less common symptom of COVID-19 than the flu or common cold.
• Omicron may cause a runny nose more often than earlier variants.
• COVID-19 runny nose may be caused by the virus infecting the nasal mucosa or triggering an immune response.
• Home remedies such as saline nasal sprays and fluids can help alleviate COVID-19 runny nose symptoms.

A runny nose can be a bothersome symptom of many illnesses, including the common cold, flu, and allergies. However, with the emergence of COVID-19, a runny nose has gained even more attention as a possible symptom of the virus. While it's not as common as other symptoms like fever and cough, a runny nose with COVID-19 can be uncomfortable.

A runny nose may be more prevalent with Omicron than previous variants. This is attributed to omicron's tendency to reside in the upper respiratory tract, which includes the nose, throat, and mouth. In contrast, earlier variants were more prone to traveling down the respiratory tract and affecting the lungs. One study found that a runny nose was one of the top 5 symptoms reported for Omicron infection. Other symptoms in this group included headache, mild or severe fatigue, sneezing, and sore throat. ref1

This article explores the link between COVID-19 and a runny nose, including its causes, differences from other respiratory illnesses, treatments, and duration.

Anything that irritates the inside of the nose can cause a runny nose. The COVID-19 virus can enter through the nose and infect the nasal mucosa or lining of the nose, causing inflammation and an increase in mucus production. 1 Because COVID enters through the nose, there are several other nose symptoms that COVID-19 can cause, including loss of smell, nose bleeds, and even a burning sensation in the nose.

While a runny nose can be a symptom of COVID-19 as well as the common cold and the flu, they’re caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, while the flu is caused by influenza viruses. 

A runny nose is a less common symptom of COVID-19 than it’s for the flu or common cold, with only 4.8% of people with COVID-19 reporting this symptom. A COVID-19 runny nose may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, while a runny nose with a cold or flu may be the only symptom or accompanied by mild symptoms like a sore throat or headache.

Since symptoms of these illnesses are similar, the best way to differentiate between them is by testing. There are PCR tests that can test for COVID-19 and flu at the same time. 

Read more about COVID-19 vs cold symptoms here >>

The duration of a COVID-19 runny nose may vary from person to person. A COVID-19 runny nose can last anywhere from a few days to a week or more. A runny nose has also been reported as a common symptom of long COVID, meaning it can persist for 12 weeks or more. 2

There’s no specific treatment for a COVID-19 runny nose. However, some home remedies may help alleviate the symptoms, such as:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. This can help thin out the mucus and make it easier to clear from the nose. It also helps to prevent dehydration, which can worsen nasal congestion.
2. Use saline nasal sprays. Saline sprays can help to moisturize the nasal passages and reduce inflammation, making breathing easier. They can also help to flush out irritants and allergens from the nose.
3. Avoid irritants. Irritants like cigarette smoke or strong perfumes can aggravate the nasal passages, increasing mucus production and congestion. Avoiding these irritants can help to reduce symptoms.
4. Take over-the-counter medications. Decongestants and antihistamines may help relieve nasal congestion and reduce mucus production.

In conclusion, while a runny nose is not a common symptom of COVID-19, it can still occur in some cases. The exact cause of a COVID-19 runny nose is still unknown, but it may be due to the virus's ability to infect the nasal mucosa or trigger an immune response. A COVID-19 runny nose may differ from a cold or flu runny nose in frequency and accompanying symptoms. There’s no specific treatment for a COVID-19 runny nose, but home remedies and over-the-counter medications may help alleviate the symptoms. The duration of a COVID-19 runny nose may vary, and it's essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

Q: How long does a runny nose last with COVID-19?
A: The duration of a runny nose with COVID-19 may vary from person to person. It can last anywhere from a few days to a week or more, and in some cases, it can be a symptom of long COVID, persisting for 12 weeks or more.

Q: What color is nose mucus with COVID-19?
A: In general, COVID-19 nasal discharge may be clear or whitish, but it’s not always the case, and it can also be yellow or green in some cases. 

Q: How common is a runny nose with COVID-19?
A: A runny nose is less common with COVID-19 than with other respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold and the flu. However, a runny nose is more typical with certain COVID-19 variants, like Omicron.

Q: Can you have yellow or green nasal mucus with COVID-19?
A: Yes, it is possible to have yellow or green nasal mucus with COVID-19.

Q: Is a runny nose an Omicron symptom?
A: Yes, a runny nose is a common symptom of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. Some studies have suggested that a runny nose is one of the most common symptoms of Omicron, along with headache, sore throat, and fatigue.