Runny Nose in Tokyo? What to Do Right Now

A runny or congested nose is one of the most common travel complaints — often just a cold or allergies, but sometimes a sign of something that needs a closer look.

This page helps you decide what to do next — rest at your hotel, arrange a same-day doctor visit, or seek emergency care. TOKYO CLINIC sends English-speaking doctors directly to your hotel in central Tokyo, usually within 60–90 minutes.

At a Glance

  • English-speaking physician
  • Same-day hotel visits
  • Physical examination
  • Medication may be provided
  • Medical certificates available
  • Hospital referral when necessary

What Should I Do Now?

Clear runny nose, mild congestion, no fever Rest, stay hydrated, and monitor for a few days.
Thick or discolored discharge, facial pain/pressure, or fever lasting more than a couple of days Arrange a same-day medical assessment — message us on WhatsApp and a doctor can visit your hotel.
Difficulty breathing, high fever with severe headache or facial swelling, or a stiff neck Call 119 immediately, or ask hotel staff to call for you.

When Should I Seek Emergency Care?

Call 119 for an ambulance (or ask hotel staff to call) if your runny nose comes with any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • High fever with a severe headache, facial swelling, or pain around the eyes
  • A stiff neck with fever
  • Confusion or severe weakness
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing)

Can I Stay in My Hotel?

If none of the emergency signs above apply, you can usually stay at your hotel while a doctor examines and treats you. If your symptoms suddenly get worse, or you notice any of the emergency signs above — even while you're waiting for the doctor — call 119 right away rather than wait for us. TOKYO CLINIC is here to help with non-emergency care; it should never delay emergency treatment.

How Does a Doctor Visit Work?

  1. Contact TOKYO CLINIC by WhatsApp or email with your symptoms and hotel name.
  2. A doctor visits your hotel, typically within 60–90 minutes.
  3. Examination of your nose, throat, and ears.
  4. Medication is provided or arranged on the spot in most cases.
  5. A hospital referral is arranged if a complication is suspected.
  6. A medical certificate is issued on request, for insurance or airline purposes.

Common Causes of Runny Nose

  • Common cold — a viral infection, usually with clear discharge.
  • Allergies (hay fever) — pollen, dust, or new environments while traveling.
  • Sinusitis — inflammation of the sinuses, often following a cold.
  • Flu (influenza) — sometimes with a runny nose alongside fever and body aches.
  • Dry air or air conditioning — common in hotels and can irritate nasal passages.
  • COVID-19 — can present with a runny nose in some cases.

How It Is Assessed

  • History — symptoms, duration, travel itinerary, and allergy history, in English.
  • Examination — checking your nose, throat, and ears.
  • Testing — rapid flu or COVID-19 tests when appropriate.
  • Clear explanation — the doctor explains the likely cause and what it means for your trip.

Possible Treatment

  • Symptom relief — decongestants and antihistamines.
  • Nasal rinse or spray — for congestion relief.
  • Antibiotics — only if a bacterial sinus infection is suspected.
  • Hospital referral — if a serious complication is suspected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a cold or allergies?

Both can cause a runny nose, but the pattern differs — a cold often comes with a sore throat or mild fever, while allergies tend to include sneezing and itchy eyes. The doctor can help identify the cause.

Do I need antibiotics?

Only if a bacterial sinus infection is suspected. Most cases of a runny nose are caused by viruses or allergies, which don't respond to antibiotics.

Can I fly tomorrow?

Often yes, if your symptoms are mild and improving. The doctor can advise based on your specific case, especially if sinus or ear pressure could be affected by flying.

Can I get a medical certificate?

Yes, for travel insurance claims or airline documentation.

Will the doctor speak English?

Yes. All doctors seeing international patients are English-speaking, from first contact to the visit itself.

Should I go to a hospital?

Not usually. Most cases of a runny nose can be safely assessed and treated at your hotel. A hospital referral is arranged only if a serious complication is suspected.

Feel Unwell in Tokyo?

Message us now — Doctor in as little as 60 minutes.

Or email tkyclnc@tokyoclinicjapan.com