A runny nose is a common condition, often benign, and usually resolves within days with proper care like hydration, rest, and saline nasal rinses. However, some instances of a runny nose may indicate underlying sinonasal conditions that require medical attention.

Green, yellow nasal discharge

According to Healthline, nasal discharge is typically clear initially but can turn yellow or green during a cold or respiratory infection. However, discharge color alone does not definitively indicate a bacterial infection or its underlying cause.

Sinusitis can cause thick, yellow, or green nasal discharge, along with congestion, facial pain or pressure, headaches, and post-nasal drip. If these symptoms last over 10 days without improving, worsen after an initial reduction, or include persistent facial pain and fever, a medical consultation is advisable.

Nasal rinsing helps reduce congestion. Photo: Duy Anh

Runny nose with difficulty breathing

A deviated nasal septum occurs when the wall between the nasal passages shifts, narrowing one side and impeding airflow, which can cause breathing difficulty. Common symptoms include congestion in one or both nostrils. The nasal lining may become dry and irritated, leading to bleeding. When this happens, nasal discharge can mix with blood, appearing pink, red, or brown.

Persistent runny nose

If clear nasal discharge persists for over two weeks, a medical evaluation is recommended to determine the cause, which could be allergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis. Vasomotor rhinitis involves the nasal lining overreacting to environmental factors such as temperature shifts, humidity, or strong odors, resulting in a runny nose and congestion.

Discharge with congestion due to polyps

Nasal polyps are benign soft tissue growths forming in the nasal lining or sinuses; they are not cancerous. Polyps can narrow or block nasal and sinus passages, causing congestion and discharge. Patients commonly experience persistent congestion and a diminished or lost sense of smell. If sinusitis is also present, the discharge may become thick, yellow, or green.

Unilateral nasal discharge

Foreign objects in the nose, common in children, can inflame the mucous membrane, leading to unilateral discharge that is often thick and foul-smelling. This may also include congestion, bleeding, or pain. If a foreign object is suspected, seek medical attention for safe examination and removal. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as this could push it deeper, causing further injury or bleeding.

Nasal polyps or abnormal growths within the nasal cavity or sinuses can also cause blockages, resulting in persistent unilateral nasal discharge.

Anh Chi (Compiled)