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Nasal discharge

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Throat anatomy
Throat anatomy
Runny and stuffy nose
Runny and stuffy nose

Alternative names    Return to top

Runny nose; Postnasal drip; Rhinorrhea

Definition    Return to top

Nasal discharge is any mucus-like material that comes out of the nose.

Considerations    Return to top

Nasal discharges are common, but rarely serious. Drainage from inflamed or infected sinuses may be thick or discolored.

Excess mucus production may run down the back of your throat (postnasal drip) or cause a cough that is usually worse at night. A sore throat may also result from excessive mucus drainage.

The mucus drainage may plug up the tube between the nose and the ear, causing an ear infection and pain. The mucus drip may also plug the sinus passages, causing sinus infection and pain.

Common Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

Keep the mucus thin rather than thick and sticky. This helps prevent complications, such as ear and sinus infections, and plugging of your nasal passages. To thin the mucus:

Antihistamines may reduce the amount of mucus. Be careful, because some antihistamines may make you drowsy. Don't use over-the-counter nasal sprays more frequently than 3 days on and 3 days off, unless ordered by the doctor.

OVERUSE OF ANTIBIOTICS

Many people think that a green or yellow nasal discharge means a bacterial infection, which requires antibiotics. This is NOT true. Colds will often begin with a clear nasal discharge, but after several days it usually turns creamy yellow or green. Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics will not help. A green or yellow nasal discharge is not a sign you need antibiotics.

Call your health care provider if    Return to top

What to expect at your health care provider's office    Return to top

Your doctor may perform a physical examination, including an examination of the ears, nose, and throat.

Your doctor may ask medical history questions, such as:

Diagnostic tests that may be performed for persistent problems include:

For allergic rhinitis, antihistamines may be prescribed. Antibiotics should only be prescribed for bacterial infections.

Update Date: 4/19/2004

Updated by: Kevin Fung, M.D., FRCS(C), Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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