For as long as I can remember, I have suffered with a runny nose. I've never actually been to a doctor to be assessed. What can I do to end this annoying problem?

Dr Philippa Kaye answers: A constantly runny or blocked nose would usually be due to a condition called rhinitis – inflammation of the lining of the nose and sinuses.

There are several possible triggers, and identifying the cause is key to treating it.

In many cases, rhinitis is short-lived and caused by an infection such as a cold. While symptoms usually ease as the virus clears, a runny nose can linger for a few weeks afterwards.

If symptoms last for months, or longer, is unlikely to be due to an infection – instead, an allergy may be the culprit. 

Many people get season allergic rhinitis or, as it's more commonly known, hay fever. This is an allergy to one or more types of pollen. 

This is often accompanied by itchy eyes and throat. However, many patients solely experience a runny nose.

If the rhinitis continues year-round this does not necessarily mean allergies aren't to blame. It could be triggered by regular exposure to dust or pet hair.

A streaming nose is one of the main symptoms of rhinitis. This is an inflammation of the nose tissue and the sinuses

GP, author and broadcaster Dr Philippa Kaye

One way to find out whether allergies are to blame is to try a daily antihistamine tablet. These cheap pills can be purchased at local pharmacies. It's worth trying an antihistamine for several weeks to see if it has any effect.

If the rhinitis subsides, patients should continue taking the antihistamine to limit the chances of it returning. Many patients may also benefit from using an over-the-counter steroid nasal spray, alongside antihistamines.

This treatment is designed to lower inflammation in the nose, in order to improve symptoms.

It is important to use the spray correctly.

If used with the head tipped back, the medication simply runs down the back of the throat and the patient will swallow it. Instead, blow the nose gently first. Then, tilt the head forwards so that the chin is on the chest.

Insert the spray into one nostril, aiming it slightly towards the outside of the nose. Spraying it down the middle may damage the nasal septum. Repeat these steps for the other nostril.

Once complete, keep the head down for at least a minute before straightening up again. It can take a few days to start making an impact and several weeks for the full effect to be felt. So, like with the antihistamines, it's worth sticking with the treatment, even if it feels like it isn't working.

In some cases, a runny nose can be due to small growths in the nasal passage, called polyps. The growths can also trigger a loss of smell and taste as well as post-nasal drip – where mucus runs down the back of the throat.