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rhinorrhea

A runny nose: thin fluid draining from the nose.

ry-noh-REE-uh noun

Word parts

What it means

Common with colds, allergies (allergic rhinitisry-NY-tisInflammation of the lining of the nose.rhin/o nose-itis inflammationFull entry ) and cold air. After a head injury, clear fluid running from the nose can be cerebrospinal fluid leaking through a skull fracture, which is a different and serious matter.

For the nurse

After a head injury, report clear nasal drainage at once; do not pack the nose or suction through it, and teach the client not to blow the nose.

At a glance

Everyday wordsrunny nose
Spanishrinorrea

Related terms

cerebrospinal fluid

The clear, watery fluid that bathes and cushions the brain and spinal cord.

rhinitis

Inflammation of the lining of the nose.

-rrhea

A word ending that means flow or discharge.

common cold

A mild viral infection of the nose and throat.

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