Why Spicy Food Makes Your Nose Run

Why does your nose suddenly run when you eat spicy food—when you’re not even sick

This isn’t an allergy for most people. It’s a reflex. Spicy foods contain

capsaicin, which activates sensory nerves in your mouth and nose area.

A major player is the trigeminal nerve—your irritation detector for heat, sting,

and spice. That signal can trigger glands in your nasal lining to release watery

mucus. When it happens specifically during eating, it’s often called gustatory rhinitis.

Notice what’s usually missing: no itchiness, no hives—just a sudden,

clear runny nose. It can be stronger with very hot foods, spicy foods,