Nasal discharge

Definition

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

Alternative Names

Considerations

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.

Causes

• The common cold or the flu -- nasal secretions contain antibodies that act against viruses and carry them out of the body
• Hay fever -- nasal secretions are usually clear and very thin
• Sinusitis -- the nasal secretions may be thick and discolored yellow, brown, or green
• Head injury
• Bacterial infections
• Small objects in the nostril (especially in children)
• Nasal sprays (drops containing vasoconstrictors may cause rebound rhinorrhea, if used longer than 3 consecutive days)