Cause | Common Features* |
---|---|
A mucus- and pus-filled discharge, often from only one side of the nose Sometimes a foul or metallic taste in the mouth, facial pain or headache, and redness or tenderness over the cheeks or above the eyebrows No itching and no eye or throat irritation | |
A watery discharge, sneezing, and watery, itchy eyes Pale, soft, swollen membranes lining the nose (nasal mucosa), seen during the examination Symptoms that often occur during certain seasons or after exposure to possible triggers | |
Decongestant sprays if overused | Congestion that returns when the decongestant wears off (rebound congestion) Pale, extremely swollen nasal mucosa No discharge |
Often a foul-smelling, sometimes blood-tinged discharge from one side of the nose | |
A recurring watery discharge, sneezing, and red, swollen nasal mucosa No identifiable triggers | |
Viral upper respiratory infections | A discharge that may be watery or sticky, a sore throat, a general feeling of illness (malaise), and red nasal mucosa |
* Features include symptoms and the results of the doctor's examination. Features mentioned are typical but not always present. |