8. Physical Abnormalities: The Structural Snag
Sometimes, the cause of a runny nose can be traced back to physical irregularities within the nasal passages or sinuses. A deviated septum, nasal polyps, or enlarged adenoids can obstruct the normal airflow and drainage, leading to chronic rhinorrhea.
These anatomical challenges create pockets and corners where mucus can accumulate and bacteria can thrive, setting the stage for repeated infections and inflammation. It’s like having a bent hose with water stuck in the kinks; the flow is disrupted, and the results are messy.
Corrective measures may involve surgery to straighten a deviated septum, remove polyps, or address the adenoids. These procedures aim to restore proper structure and function to the nasal passages, allowing for normal breathing and drainage. (8)
