Runny nose is a common symptom of various conditions, including allergies, cold, flu, sinusitis, and COVID-19. When communicating with someone who uses American Sign Language (ASL), it's important to know how to sign about runny nose and related expressions. In this article, we'll cover some ASL signs and phrases that you can use to talk about runny nose.
ASL Signs for Runny Nose
The ASL sign for runny nose is made by touching the tip of your index finger to the side of your nose and moving it down while wiggling it slightly. This sign can also be used to indicate a leaking or dripping nose. Another sign for runny nose is to wipe your nose with the back of your hand or a tissue, and then show the tissue or hand to indicate the action.
ASL Signs for Allergies and Cold
If you want to talk about allergies or a cold that causes a runny nose, there are several ASL signs you can use. The sign for allergy is made by touching your nose with your index finger and then moving it up and out in a circular motion, as if indicating the spread of particles in the air. For cold, you can use the sign for sick, which is made by touching your chest with your open hand and then moving it out and down in a curved motion.
ASL Signs for Sinusitis and COVID-19
If your runny nose is caused by sinusitis or COVID-19, you can use specific ASL signs to convey this information. The sign for sinusitis is made by touching your forehead with your open hand and then moving it down to your nose, as if indicating pressure or pain in the sinuses. For COVID-19, you can use the fingerspelled abbreviation "C-O-V-I-D" followed by the sign for sick or virus.
Other Phrases Related to Runny Nose
Aside from signs for runny nose and its causes, there are also other ASL phrases that you can use when talking about this symptom. For example, you can sign "I need tissue" by making the sign for tissue, which is made by holding your hand in a C shape and then wiping it across your nose. You can also sign "I have a runny nose" by combining the sign for runny nose with the sign for have, which is made by crossing your arms in front of your chest.
Conclusion
Knowing how to sign about runny nose in ASL can help you communicate effectively with deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who experience this symptom. By using the appropriate signs and phrases, you can convey the nature and severity of the condition, as well as your need for assistance or understanding. Whether you're learning ASL for personal or professional reasons, it's important to practice and refine your skills for optimal communication.