A runny nose, medically known as rhinorrhea, is a common side effect experienced by individuals undergoing chemotherapy. While generally not considered a severe complication, it can cause discomfort and impact daily life. Understanding this symptom and how to manage it can improve a patient’s comfort during treatment.
Understanding Chemotherapy-Induced Runny Nose
Chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, including cancer cells. However, this action also affects healthy cells that multiply quickly, such as those lining the nasal passages. This can lead to irritation and inflammation of the mucous membranes inside the nose, prompting an increase in mucus production. The body’s natural defense mechanism involves producing mucus to clear away irritants, viruses, or bacteria. This type of runny nose, known as chemotherapy-induced rhinitis, is a direct physiological response to the medication’s impact on nasal tissues, distinct from symptoms caused by infection or allergy. Radiation therapy can also contribute to inflammation and damage to nasal tissues, sometimes in conjunction with chemotherapy.
Self-Care Strategies for Relief
Nasal irrigation, using saline rinses or a neti pot, can provide relief by helping to clear excess mucus and moisturize nasal passages. Use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water for these rinses to prevent introducing harmful microorganisms into the nasal cavity. Gently blowing the nose after irrigation helps remove loosened secretions without causing irritation.
Maintaining adequate hydration is an important self-care measure, as drinking plenty of fluids like water or herbal teas can help thin mucus, making it easier to drain. A humidifier in your living space or bedroom can add moisture to the air, which soothes dry or irritated nasal membranes. Using a warm-mist humidifier and distilled water, while ensuring regular cleaning to prevent mold growth, supports this effort.
Avoiding environmental irritants can reduce symptoms. Exposure to cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, dust, or pollen can further irritate nasal passages and exacerbate a runny nose. Using soft tissues rather than rough ones helps prevent skin irritation and chapping around the nostrils. Always discuss any new self-care remedies with your healthcare provider.
Medical Approaches for Management
When self-care strategies are insufficient, a healthcare provider might suggest medical interventions. Prescription nasal sprays can be effective in managing chemotherapy-induced rhinorrhea.
Ipratropium bromide nasal spray works by reducing mucus production in the nasal passages and is used for runny noses caused by conditions like the common cold or seasonal allergies. Corticosteroid nasal sprays, such as fluticasone propionate, reduce inflammation and mucus in the nasal passageways. These sprays are often aimed towards the outer wall of the nostril to maximize effectiveness and minimize irritation to the septum. While they can start working quickly, it may take several weeks to experience their full effect.
Oral medications like certain antihistamines or decongestants might also be considered. However, their use requires careful consideration due to potential interactions with chemotherapy drugs or other side effects, such as drowsiness or dry mouth. Any medical treatment should be discussed and approved by the oncology team to ensure safety and avoid complications. A doctor’s evaluation is important to rule out other potential causes for a runny nose, such as an infection or an allergic reaction, which may require different treatments.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Contact your healthcare team if the runny nose is accompanied by certain symptoms, as these could indicate a more serious issue. A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, or body aches may signal an infection, which is particularly concerning for individuals undergoing chemotherapy due to weakened immune systems. Changes in mucus color or consistency, such as becoming thick, yellow, or green, could also indicate a bacterial infection requiring medical attention.
Nosebleeds that are persistent or severe should be reported promptly. Other concerning symptoms include severe nasal pain or pressure, or if the runny nose worsens despite self-care measures. Any new or unusual symptoms during chemotherapy warrant immediate communication with the oncology team. Reporting all side effects helps the medical team provide appropriate and timely care, ensuring patient safety throughout treatment.