Does your nose become a leaky faucet every time you eat? Are you grabbing for a tissue rather than a second helping?
While annoying, there are some reasons your nose runs or feels stuffy while eating. Let’s explore the surprising causes and what you can do about them.
The science behind a runny nose when you eat
When your nose runs while eating, it’s usually caused by a condition called gustatory rhinitis, a non-allergic form of rhinitis. This fancy term simply means your nose runs when you eat certain foods.
“Eating certain foods can stimulate the nerves in your mouth and throat,” said Garrett Urban, MD, a family medicine physician with Banner Health. “These nerves signal to your nose to start producing more mucus to flush out what it thinks are irritants, which then causes the nose to run.”
Dr. Urban said the two most common causes are:
- Spicy foods: Capsaicin, the active component in hot peppers, wasabi and other spicy foods, can irritate the nasal lining and lead to a runny nose. This is why spicy dishes are often the main culprits.
- Hot-temperature foods: Eating or drinking physically hot foods or beverages, such as soups, can also cause your nasal passages to react.
“Spicy foods activate the same receptors that high temperatures do,” Dr. Urban said. “The nose runs because the body is trying to protect the mucous membranes from what it thinks are high temperatures.”
Some people may be more prone to getting a runny nose when they eat spicy foods or drink hot beverages. These include older adults, individuals with chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps and those on certain medications.
Other conditions that may cause a runny nose while eating
While gustatory rhinitis is a common cause, other conditions may also contribute to or cause a runny nose when you eat:
- Food allergens: Allergic reactions to certain foods can cause a runny nose or congestion (a stuffed-up nose) along with other symptoms like itching, swelling, hives or rashes. Common allergens include dairy, nuts, shellfish and eggs.
- Alcohol: Drinking alcoholic beverages like wine and beer can trigger this reaction in some people.
- Environmental irritants: Breathing in strong fragrances, smoking and certain weather changes are other causes of non-allergic rhinitis that can worsen symptoms when you eat.
- Sinus infections: “Congested sinuses can lead to an increased volume of mucous, making a runny nose while eating worse,” Dr. Urban said. “It can also make chewing and swallowing more challenging.”
Can you prevent a runny nose while eating?
While it may not be entirely preventable, there are ways to manage and reduce the frequency and annoyance of a runny nose during meals:
- Figure out your triggers: Pay attention to which foods seem to cause your symptoms. Once you know your triggers, you can try to avoid them or prepare for them by having some tissues on hand.
- Change your diet: If spicy foods are a major trigger, try to reduce your intake or try milder versions. Sometimes, a small tweak can make a big difference.
- Eat slowly: Taking your time with meals can sometimes reduce the severity of a runny nose.
- Create a comfortable eating environment: Avoid eating in environments that are too hot or cold, as extreme temperatures can cause your nose to run.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help thin mucous and may reduce the severity of your symptoms.
- Try over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medicines: OTC and prescription nasal sprays can help treat and prevent a runny nose while eating. Oral antihistamines can also help decrease runny noses during and after eating.
“Nasal sprays containing steroids such as fluticasone or budesonide help decrease inflammation in the nasal passages,” Dr. Urban said. “Sprays containing oxymetazoline can help dry up the nasal passages, but should not be used more than three days in a row.”
When to see your health care provider
Most of the time, a runny nose while eating is more of an annoyance than a serious health issue. However, if your condition worsens or you notice other symptoms, like problems with eating and drinking, it’s a good idea to see your health care provider. They can help rule out other potential causes and provide more targeted treatment options.
Takeaway
While it might seem like an odd inconvenience, a runny nose when you eat is just one of many ways our bodies react to the world around us. Understanding why it happens can help you take steps to manage your symptoms and enjoy your meals without the constant need for tissues. If you have additional concerns, talk to your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist for personalized care and treatment.
