Red flags & when to go in person for Runny Nose (Rhinorrhea)

Audience: pediatric

A runny nose, or rhinorrhea, is a common symptom in children and often results from mild infections like colds or allergies. Many cases can be safely managed through telemedicine, where healthcare providers offer advice, symptom monitoring, and guidance on care at home. However, some signs suggest the need for in-person evaluation to rule out more serious conditions or complications. Parents should watch for warning signs such as difficulty breathing, high fever, or persistent symptoms beyond a week. Telemedicine can help determine if your child’s runny nose requires urgent care or if home treatment is appropriate. This guide helps families understand when to seek face-to-face medical attention and how to prepare for a telemedicine visit to ensure your child receives the best care possible.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever above 39°C (102°F) lasting more than 3 days — arrange in-person evaluation.
• Severe headache, stiff neck, unusual drowsiness, or confusion — urgent medical attention needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild runny nose with no breathing difficulty or high fever.
• Parental guidance on symptom management and home care.
• Assessment of allergy-related nasal symptoms.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing problems or respiratory distress.
• Signs of serious infection such as meningitis symptoms.
• Persistent or worsening symptoms requiring physical examination or tests.

What is a Runny Nose (Rhinorrhea)?

A runny nose happens when extra mucus flows from the nose. It is very common in children and usually caused by viral infections like the common cold, allergies, or irritants. The mucus may be clear, yellow, or green, and symptoms often improve on their own.

When is Telemedicine Appropriate?

Telemedicine can help assess your child’s symptoms, provide advice on managing a runny nose, and decide if further care is needed. It is suitable for mild symptoms without breathing trouble, high fever, or other serious signs. Providers can recommend home remedies, symptom relief, and when to watch for changes.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Some signs mean your child should be seen in person quickly:

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, gather information to help the healthcare provider:

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider’s advice carefully. This may include:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Record the start date and progression of symptoms.
• Take and note your child's temperature.
• List any medications or treatments already given.
• Prepare to describe your child's breathing and activity level.
• Ensure a quiet space with reliable internet or phone connection for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow home care instructions provided by the telemedicine provider.
• Keep track of symptom changes or new warning signs.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or do not improve as advised.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flags appear.
• Maintain hydration and comfort measures for your child.

FAQs

Can a runny nose be treated through telemedicine?

Yes, many cases of runny nose due to mild infections or allergies can be managed through telemedicine. Providers can offer advice on symptom relief and when to seek further care.

When should I take my child to see a doctor in person?

If your child has difficulty breathing, a high fever lasting more than three days, severe headache, stiff neck, or symptoms that worsen or last more than 10 days, you should seek in-person medical care.

What home remedies can help a child with a runny nose?

Keeping your child well hydrated, using saline nasal sprays, ensuring plenty of rest, and using a humidifier can help ease symptoms. Avoid exposure to irritants like smoke.

Is a green or yellow runny nose a sign of bacterial infection?

Not necessarily. The color of nasal mucus often changes during viral infections and does not always indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.

Can allergies cause a runny nose in children?

Yes, allergies are a common cause of runny nose and may be accompanied by sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.

Sources

1. Rhinorrhea (Runny Nose) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Common Cold - Symptoms and Causes — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Runny Nose in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Rhinitis in Children — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child shows any red flags or if you are concerned about their health, please seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.