Experts explain how the color of your runny nose can reveal your immune health
Some nasal mucus is colored, such as the thick mucus that small children often have that is called 'blue.' An expert explains the difference between the different colors of nasal mucus, which plays an important role in protecting the body from dust, bacteria, and viruses.
What the color of your snot says about your immune health
According to Samuel J. White, associate professor and project director, and Philip B. Wilson, vice provost for innovation and knowledge exchange at York St. John University in the UK, nasal mucus contains antibacterial enzymes such as
And when you're not feeling well, your immune system responds by making your nasal mucus thicker, increase in quantity, and change color.
◆Transparent
Healthy nasal mucus is basically clear and contains mainly water, proteins, salts, and immune cells that lubricate the nasal passages and trap invading particles.
Excessive production of clear mucus can occur when the body responds to irritants or pathogens, such as allergies or early viral infections.
◆ White
White snot is often a sign of nasal congestion, and inflamed nasal tissue can slow down and thicken mucus, which is usually a sign that you're starting to get a cold as your immune system begins to fight off invaders.
◆Yellow
Additionally, if your nasal mucus turns yellow, it means your immune system is actively fighting the infection.
The yellow color of the runny nose in this case is caused by enzymes released when the white blood cells that were sent to fight the infection die, and is a sign that the body is responding to many viral infections, such as the cold, flu, and respiratory syncytial
◆Green
Your nasal mucus turns green when neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, produce large amounts of the enzyme myeloperoxidase, which helps destroy pathogens.
Often, a green runny nose is due to a bacterial infection, but it can also be seen when the body mounts a strong immune response to an aggressive viral pathogen.
Red or pink
If your mucus is reddish, it means your nasal mucus is bloody, which often happens when your nose is irritated, dry or damaged, usually caused by excessive nose blowing or dry air.
If there is a small amount of blood in your nasal discharge, it is usually nothing to worry about.
◆Brown or orange
Brown or orange mucus can occur when dried blood gets mixed in or environmental debris like smoke or dust is inhaled. This colored mucus is usually harmless, but it can be a sign of lingering inflammation.
◆Black
Black nasal discharge is rare and can indicate a more serious problem such as a fungal infection, especially if you have a compromised immune system, or severe exposure to pollutants such as cigarette smoke or soot.
Therefore, if your nasal discharge is black, you should see a doctor.
Summary
Nasal mucus is an essential component of the immune system, actively protecting the body by trapping and neutralizing harmful pathogens. Paying attention to the color and viscosity of your nasal mucus can provide a glimpse into the complex immune processes at work in the human body and changes in your health.
'The next time you reach for a tissue, remember that a runny nose isn't just a symptom of feeling unwell - it's a sign of your immune system,' White and colleagues say. 'In a way, your runny nose is a sign of your body's resilience, reflecting the complex defenses that are keeping you healthy and safe.'
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