Runny Nose and Drug Use: A Hidden Sign of Addiction?

What does a runny nose have to do with drug use?

Most of us don’t think twice about a runny nose. Maybe it’s allergies, a cold or the weather. But when it’s constant or doesn’t seem to have a clear cause, it could be a sign of something more serious. A runny nose is one of those symptoms that can quietly signal drug use, often without anyone realising it.

The obvious link people make is with drugs like cocaine, since it’s known to be snorted and sniffing substances can irritate the nose and sinuses. But the connection between a runny nose and drug use actually runs deeper than that. It’s not always a case of how the drug is taken but also about how certain substances affect the body in different ways.

Here are some drugs that can cause a runny nose:

• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Methamphetamine
• Ketamine
• MDMA (ecstasy)
• Fentanyl
• Prescription opioids
• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Benzodiazepines (in some withdrawal cases)
• Alcohol (particularly during withdrawal)

In the next sections, we’ll break down how some of these drugs can contribute to this seemingly harmless symptom.

Cocaine addiction and a runny nose

When people think about a runny nose and drug use, cocaine is usually the first drug that comes to mind. Cocaine is most commonly snorted and that direct contact with the delicate lining inside the nose can cause a whole range of nasal issues, from mild irritation to serious long-term damage.

At first, a runny nose might seem like a temporary side effect after using the drug. But with regular use, the constant sniffing, wiping and inflammation can become a daily issue, even when someone isn’t actively using. It’s one of the more visible signs of cocaine addiction, though it’s often dismissed as allergies or a cold.

Some people who use cocaine may even start carrying tissues with them or become self-conscious about sniffing too often. These behaviours might seem small, but they can be subtle red flags, especially when paired with other signs, such as mood swings, erratic behaviour, or secrecy around their activities.

If someone’s struggling with cocaine addiction, physical symptoms like a runny nose are just the tip of the iceberg.

Opioid addiction and a runny nose

While cocaine might be the most obvious drug linked to a runny nose, opioids, like heroin and prescription painkillers, can cause it too and in more than one way.

Firstly, some people sniff heroin or crushed opioid tablets as a method of use. This can irritate the nasal passages just like cocaine does, leading to a constant or recurring runny nose. It’s less commonly talked about but it’s something to keep in mind, especially if someone seems to have nasal issues without the usual cold or allergy triggers.

But even when opioids are taken in other ways, a runny nose can still show up, usually during the opioid withdrawal stage. When someone’s coming off heroin or another opioid, their body reacts in all sorts of unpleasant ways: fatigue, anxiety, muscle aches and a lot of yawning.

It sounds strange but yawning can actually cause a runny nose. When you yawn frequently, your facial muscles shift, your eyes water, and your sinuses start draining more fluid than usual. Pair that with other withdrawal symptoms and a runny nose becomes another piece of the puzzle that something deeper might be going on.

Methamphetamine use and a runny nose

When people think of the damage caused by methamphetamine, the focus often lands on “meth mouth”; severe tooth decay and gum disease that gives away long-term use. But there’s another, lesser-known consequence of methamphetamine addiction that also affects the face: nasal and sinus problems, including a runny nose.

A study found that methamphetamine users may be at risk of developing serious infections in the maxillary sinuses, which are the air-filled spaces behind the cheeks and under the eyes. In the cases highlighted, users developed fluid-filled pockets (mucoceles) and loculated purulent collections, which means pus-filled swellings, within their sinuses.

This happens because methamphetamine damages oral health severely, which can create a breeding ground for an infection that spreads upwards into the sinus cavities. Add to that the irritation from inhaling or sniffing the drug and it’s not surprising that a constantly runny or congested nose can become a regular symptom in users.

When is a runny nose a sign of drug addiction?

Let’s be clear: a runny nose on its own doesn’t mean someone has a drug addiction. It could be from a cold, allergies or even a one-off use of a substance. And while a one-time experience with a drug still carries risks, it doesn’t automatically mean a person is addicted.

That said, it could be worth paying attention to when a runny nose keeps coming back or appearing alongside other physical or behavioural changes. Especially if someone is going through withdrawal, where the body is reacting to the absence of a drug it’s come to rely on and a runny nose is just one part of the picture.

Common withdrawal symptoms that often show up with a runny nose include:

• Frequent yawning
• Watery eyes
• Muscle aches or restlessness
• Irritability or mood swings
• Sweating or chills
• Trouble sleeping

When these symptoms appear together, especially when someone behaves differently, it suggests something deeper is going on. But again, context matters. A runny nose without any of the other signs? Probably nothing to worry about. A runny nose with a few of the above? That’s when it’s worth gently digging a little further.

What to do if you suspect drug use in yourself or someone else

If you’ve read this far and something’s clicked, whether it’s about yourself or someone close to you, it’s important to trust that instinct. You don’t have to be completely sure there’s a problem to take action. Sometimes, that nagging feeling is enough to start asking questions and opening up a conversation.

Check-in with yourself honestly

If you’re concerned about your own drug use, start by checking in with yourself. Are you using it more often than you used to? Do you feel anxious, tired or irritable when you’re not using? Have you noticed physical symptoms that don’t seem to go away?

Addiction can develop slowly, and many people don’t realise they’re dependent until it starts affecting their health, mood or relationships. Being honest with yourself is the first step to making positive changes.

Approach others with care, not confrontation

If you’re worried about someone else, try not to jump straight into accusations or assumptions. A gentle approach is usually more effective. You could say something like:

“You’ve seemed a bit off lately and I just wanted to check in. Are you feeling okay?”

Or

“I’ve noticed you’ve been unwell a lot. Have you spoken to anyone about it?”

Let them know you’re there to support them, not judge them. Sometimes, having just one person who listens can give someone the courage to admit they need help.

Get professional advice, even if you’re unsure

You don’t need all the answers before reaching out for support. Rehab providers, like UKAT, can offer advice even if you’re still figuring things out. Whether it’s for you or someone you care about, having that first conversation can bring a lot of clarity and possibly the first step towards recovery.

Get support from UKAT

If you’re concerned about drug addiction, whether it’s related to cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine or something else entirely, UKAT is here to help. We offer compassionate, confidential support and treatment programmes tailored to your needs. Whether you’re ready to take the next step or just need someone to talk to, we’re only a phone call away.

Reach out to UKAT today and take that first step towards recovery.