What diseases can be indicated by changes in nasal discharge color?

I've had a runny nose for 3 days, and the mucus in my nose has turned green. What kind of illness is this discoloration of the mucus, and is it serious, doctor? (Cam Nhung, 26 years old)

Reply:

Normal mucus is made from water, proteins, antibodies, and dissolved salts; it is watery and clear; and is commonly found in the nose, mouth, sinuses, throat, lungs, and stomach. The nose typically produces about one liter of mucus per day to clear the nasal and sinus system. It also acts as a moisturizer, a protective barrier preventing dust and harmful external agents from entering the respiratory system.

When viruses and bacteria enter the nose, mucus production increases. This is the body's reaction against harmful agents, preventing them from going further into the lungs. Tiny hairs in the respiratory tract (cilia) act like "little brooms," sweeping away the mucus so we can cough it out.

Normal mucus is usually thin and clear, but it becomes thicker when the body fights an infection. This depends on the trigger that activates the body's mucus-producing tissues. In the case of a cold, more mucus is produced to prevent viruses, bacteria, or other irritants from entering the nasal passages.

Mucus, which is usually clear, can change to various colors such as yellow, green, brown, black, red, etc., when you are sick. Swelling and inflammation of the nasal mucosa cause the mucus to thicken and become more viscous. If you have a cold, the mucus often turns white or even yellow, especially when dehydrated. Yellow or green mucus signals a viral attack. Green mucus may indicate the presence of a large number of white blood cells fighting infection. If green nasal discharge persists for several days, you should see a doctor as it could be due to sinusitis or a bacterial infection.

Discolored nasal mucus can be a sign of infection. (Image: Freepik) — Discolored nasal mucus can be a sign of infection. (Image: *Freepik)*

When you live in a dusty environment, work in a coal mine, etc., your nose gets dirty, causing the mucus to turn brown or black. Brown or black mucus can also appear in people who smoke regularly or have chronic lung disease. Pink or red mucus is due to blood from the irritated nasal lining, excessive nose picking, or a very dry nose. If the amount of blood in your nose increases and persists, you should see a doctor immediately as it may be due to a more serious cause.

However, the color of the mucus alone is not enough to definitively determine whether or not you have an infection. If you notice excessive nasal discharge, changes in color, accompanied by a high or prolonged fever, cough, etc., indicating a worsening condition, you should consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.

When you're sick, drinking plenty of fluids helps thin the mucus, making it easier to expel. Nasal irrigation devices can help clear excess mucus from the nose. Some medications can also thin nasal mucus, but you should consult a doctor and use them as directed.

MSc. Dr. Pham Thi Phuong
Ear, Nose, and Throat Center Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City

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