Did you know? The color of nasal mucus can indicate diseases.

      During periods of frequent rain and cooler weather, many people may catch a cold, and a common symptom of a cold is a runny nose. When your nose runs, most people tend to quickly grab a tissue or order the tissue to dispose of it without paying much attention. But did you know that the color of your nasal mucus, or phlegm, can indicate hidden health issues?

• Clear Nasal Mucus : This is considered a normal condition and not a sign of illness. Normally, the body produces clear nasal mucus to flush out dust and debris from the nasal passages. However, if you have excessive clear nasal mucus, it could be a sign of allergies.
• White or Cloudy Nasal Mucus : It may be due to nasal congestion caused by inflammation or infection, leading to trapped mucus in the nasal passages for an extended period. It can also result from dehydration, which makes the nasal mucus thicker than usual. Drinking more water and regular exercise can help clear the respiratory system.

• Yellow Nasal Mucus : Yellow nasal mucus, whether clear or thick, can result from an infection in the nasal or sinus cavities. When the body is infected, the immune system sends white blood cells to fight the infection, which can cause the mucus to turn yellow. If yellow nasal mucus persists for more than 7 days, it's advisable to see a doctor for treatment.
• Green Nasal Mucus : Green nasal mucus indicates a more severe infection or a longer-lasting infection than yellow mucus. It's a sign that the body's immune system is working hard to combat the infection. If green nasal mucus persists for more than 2 weeks, it's important to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.

• Red or Bloody Nasal Mucus : This is often caused by ruptured blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can occur due to irritation or injury to the nose. Inflammation in the nasal passages, dry nasal tissues, nasal polyps, various types of bleeding disorders, or forceful nose blowing can also lead to bloody nasal mucus. If you experience frequent or abnormal nosebleeds, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly.

      When you have a cold, initially, nasal mucus is usually clear, but it can change to a greenish color later on. Many people mistakenly believe that green nasal mucus indicates recovery, but it actually signifies a more severe infection that requires the immune system to send white blood cells to fight it. Therefore, if you have a cold and your nasal mucus turns green, along with other symptoms like high fever, headache, body aches, or diarrhea, it's advisable to see a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

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