My 15-month-old son seems to have a constant runny nose (clear mucus) with no other symptoms of a cold like fever, coughs, etc. I suspect that this is a result of allergies, especially since allergies run in my husband's family. Are there any natural remedies I can try to stop the runny nose? I know it's not contagious, but most parents associate a runny nose with colds and I get dirty looks when I take him to play groups or baby classes. At the same time, I'd like to avoid giving him any long-term dosages of medication that just cover the symptoms without "curing" the problem.

You're right in thinking that your son's runny nose could be due to allergies. At this age, the most common allergens are those found indoors, such as dust mites, animal dander, mold, or foods. While possible, it's less likely that he could have pollen allergies. (Pollen allergies usually develop between 4 and 6 years of age.) You can help him avoid dust mites (microscopic bugs that eat our dead skin and burrow into our bedding, rugs, and upholstered furniture) by encasing his mattress and pillow in zip-up allergen-proof encasings, and cleaning them once monthly. Dusting and vacuuming at least once a week is also helpful, as is removal of venetian blinds from the bedroom. If you have a pet, at least keep the pet out of the bedroom. While a runny nose may not seem very severe, children who develop allergies this early are at increased risk for developing asthma, especially if there's a family history of asthma. Therefore, finding out what is triggering him would be helpful.

Good luck, Dr. White

-- Dr. Martha Vetter White, MD, is cofounder and director of research at the Institute for Asthma &Allergy in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, one of the nation's most active clinical research centers devoted to allergy, asthma, and sinusitis.

First published March 1, 2004
Last updated June 21, 2007