The color of your nasal mucus reveals your health.
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Published18. December 2023, 7:00 a.m
Cold: The color of your nasal mucus says a lot about your health
If you currently have a cold, you should take a look at your tissues. Because the color of what comes out of your nose is crucial.
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The cold season is currently in full swing in Switzerland and many of you are constantly sneezing, have a stuffy nose, cough or blow your nose. But have you ever thought about taking a look at the contents of your tissue? In fact, the color of nasal mucus reveals a person’s state of health, as experts from the Health Knowledge Foundation and the online medical advice site Zava confirm.
Translucent to glassy = healthy mucus
The presence of clear nasal secretions means that it consists primarily of water, electrolytes, and proteins. This type of mucus is healthy and protects the nasal mucosa. On the other hand, if your nose is constantly running, you may be suffering from an allergy.
A certain amount of nasal mucus is completely normal. However, a change in consistency or color should alert you.
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White = signs of infection
If the nasal mucus suddenly turns white, this could possibly be an indication of the beginning of an infection. This color change is caused by fluid loss, which causes the mucus to become thicker and stickier.
Yellowish or greenish = infection is blooming
If the contents of your tissues suddenly become yellowish or greenish, you probably have an infection in the nasal mucous membranes. This color change is due to the presence of dead white blood cells and pathogens excreted from the body.
Severe colds or sinus infections often result in yellowish or greenish mucus.
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Pink, red and brown = lesions
The brownish-red color of the mucus indicates damage to the nasal mucosa or sinuses. If the color change persists, you should consult a doctor.
Black = dust or fungus
If you have inhaled a large amount of dust, you may be surprised to find that there is black mucus in your tissues that is being excreted by your body. In some cases, this color can also be a sign of a yeast infection.
If symptoms worsen or persist, it is advisable to see a doctor.
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Regardless of the color of the mucus, if symptoms worsen, fever or pain occurs, or if you feel physically ill, it is advisable to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis.
What’s your cold medicine?