Which term is used for a runny nose?

The term "rhinorrhea" specifically refers to a condition characterized by an excessive discharge of mucus from the nasal passages, commonly recognized as a runny nose. This term comes from the Greek words "rhin" meaning nose and "rrhea" meaning flow or discharge. It is often used in medical contexts to describe the symptom associated with various conditions such as colds, allergies, or sinus infections.

In contrast, sneezing is a reflex action that can be a symptom of rhinorrhea but does not describe the condition itself. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that may lead to various symptoms, including nasal congestion, but it is not synonymous with a runny nose. Allergies refer to the body's immune response to certain substances and can lead to rhinorrhea as a symptom, but again, it does not denote the condition of a runny nose itself. Thus, rhinorrhea accurately describes the specific clinical symptom of a runny nose.