Definition

A runny nose is excess nasal drainage. It may be a thin clear fluid, thick mucus or something in between. The drainage may run out of your nose, down the back of your throat or both.

The terms "rhinorrhea" and "rhinitis" are often used to refer to a runny nose. Rhinorrhea actually refers to a thin, mostly clear nasal discharge. Rhinitis refers to the inflammation of nasal tissues. Rhinitis often results in a runny nose.

If you have a runny nose, you may or may not also have nasal congestion.