Reasons for White, Yellow, Green, Red, or Black Nasal Discharge

Reasons for White, Yellow, Green, Red, or Black Nasal Discharge

As the weather has turned extremely cold due to the cold wave, many people keep sniffing

and often have a runny nose, which can cause discomfort.

A runny nose that appears temporarily may simply be an early symptom of a cold or

may be caused by nasal congestion, but if the color of the nasal discharge is different from usual,

it is a good idea to check whether it could be a sign of a condition that should be watched carefully.

Today, let’s look at the conditions and body states that may appear depending on the color of nasal discharge.

White and yellow nasal discharge

These are the two most common types.

Because nasal discharge acts like a filter inside the nose,

its color can change depending on invading bacteria and infections.

White, clear nasal discharge is generally normal,

but if there is a lot of it and it runs constantly, it may be rhinitis.

However, once it turns yellow, it may be a symptom

that requires a visit to the hospital. This is because it is closely

related to the common cold, that is, viruses.

Nasal discharge can turn yellow due to colds and viruses.

If a child as well as an adult has yellow nasal discharge,

it can be seen as a sign that the cold has progressed to some extent,

so prompt medical attention is needed.

It is common to let your guard down when only white nasal discharge appears,

then have it turn yellow. In such cases, antibiotics may also be needed.

Green nasal discharge (light green) and red or black nasal discharge

Next are the less common colors.

The color of nasal discharge that appears green or light green

shows up when immunity has become stronger.

It is caused by an enzyme called myeloperoxidase,

which is produced by neutrophils, a type of white blood cell.

Green nasal discharge can appear due to an aggressive response

that occurs while attacking bacteria.

Red or black nasal discharge, which clearly suggests that something is wrong,

means that blood is mixed into the mucus.

It means that the nasal tissue has been irritated or damaged,

capillaries have broken, and bleeding has occurred.

It may look like a nosebleed, but because it can occur due to dryness or

because of a wound, if it is temporary and small in amount,

there is no need to worry too much.

However, if it is black, dirt, smoke, or other substances may have entered

the nose, or it can also occur when infected with a fungal infection.

It is necessary to check whether black material still comes out even after nasal irrigation, and if it continues, a hospital visit is needed.