Revise
As the season shifts, it seems everyone is battling a runny nose or a pesky cough. You may find yourself dealing with sinus issues or noticing that your nasal discharge seems a bit off. Whether due to common colds or other ailments, mucus is ever-present.
Mucus, as explained by Dr. Stephen Vogel of PlushCare, plays a vital role in maintaining the moisture of our airways under normal conditions and collaborates with our immune system to fend off infections, irritants, or inflammations. Typically, healthy mucus appears clear or white.
If your mucus deviates from this norm, it might hint at allergies or, perhaps, a more significant health concern. We consulted medical experts to decipher what your mucus’s color and texture could reveal about your well-being and when it might be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.
Yellow
Yellow mucus often indicates your body is actively combating an infection. The hue emerges as a result of white blood cells striving to vanquish invading bacteria or viruses.
“When your immune system kicks into high gear, yellow mucus generally becomes thicker or more concentrated,” remarked Dr. Brynna Connor, a reputable family medicine physician. Potential triggers for yellow mucus include the common cold, sinusitis, or bronchitis.
Green
Dr. Connor explained that green mucus might signify a more severe bacterial infection. The green tinge results from the enzymes released by white blood cells in their fierce battle against infection, suggesting a prolonged or heightened immune response.
This phenomenon is often associated with bacterial sinus infections, bronchitis, or pneumonia. However, occasionally, green mucus merely reflects lingering congestion in your sinuses.
Brown
Vocabulary List:
- Mucus /ˈmjuː.kəs/ (noun): A slippery secretion produced by and covering mucous membranes.
- Sinus /ˈsaɪ.nəs/ (noun): A cavity within a bone or a tissue especially one in the skull that connects with the nasal cavities.
- Immune /ɪˈmjuːn/ (adjective): Resistant to a particular infection or toxin owing to the presence of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells.
- Infection /ɪnˈfek.ʃən/ (noun): The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues which can lead to tissue damage.
- Congestion /kənˈdʒes.tʃən/ (noun): The accumulation of an excessive amount of mucus in the respiratory system.
- Ailment /ˈeɪl.mənt/ (noun): An illness typically a minor one.
How much do you know?
