A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
Throat anatomy
Throat anatomy

Nasal discharge
Definition:

Nasal discharge is any mucus-like material that comes out of the nose.
Alternative Names:
Runny nose; Postnasal drip; Rhinorrhea; Coryza

Considerations:
Rhinorrhea is common, but rarely serious. Nasal discharges can include drainage from inflamed or infected sinuses, in which case it may be thick or discolored.

Problems from the runny nose are the result of excess mucus production. The mucus may cause postnasal drip and/or cough that is usually worse at night. A sore throat may also result from excessive mucus drainage.

The mucus drip 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:
  • The common cold or the flu (nasal secretions contain antibodies that act against viruses and carry them out of the body)
  • Allergies, allergic rhinitis, or hay fever (nasal secretions are usually clear and very thin -- see information on Allergy to mold, dander, dust)
  • Sinusitis (the nasal secretions may be thick and discolored yellow, brown, or green)
  • Head injury
  • Bacterial infections (may cause a rusty or green discharge)
  • Small objects in the nostril (especially in children)
  • Nasal sprays or drops containing vasoconstrictors may cause rebound rhinorrhea, if used longer than 3 consecutive days
Home Care:

Increasing the humidity in the air with a vaporizer or humidifier helps thin or liquefy the mucus. Heated air inside a house is usually very dry -- cooler air contains more moisture, and is preferable.

Keeping the mucus thin (rather than thick and sticky) will help prevent complications, such as ear and sinus infections, and will help prevent plugging of the nasal passages. One way to do this is by using saline nasal sprays.

Drinking extra fluids also helps to thin nasal secretions.

Because of the complications of medications, runny noses should be treated only when the discomfort is moderate to extreme.

Antihistamines (to block allergic reactions and decrease the amount of secretion), decongestants (to shrink the mucus membranes), analgesics, or antipyretics can provide some relief.

Don't use over-the-counter nasal sprays more frequently than 3 days on and 3 days off, unless ordered by the doctor.

Be aware that decongestants make some children overly active, and that antihistamines may cause drowsiness, as well as interfere with sleep.
Call your health care provider if:
  • A nasal discharge follows a head injury.
  • The drainage is foul smelling, one-sided, or a color other than white or yellow.
  • Symptoms persist beyond 3 weeks.
  • If you have a fever along with nasal discharge.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting nasal discharge in detail may include:
  • Quality
    • Is the discharge thin and watery or is it thick?
    • Is it bloody?
    • What color is it?
  • Time pattern
    • How long has the nasal discharge been present?
    • Is it present all the time?
  • Other
    • What other symptoms are also present?
    • Is the nose stuffy or congested?
    • Is there a cough or headache?
    • Is there a sore throat?
    • Is there fever present?

An examination of the ears, nose, and throat will be performed.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed for persistent problems include:

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

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to nasal discharge, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.
Review Date: 2/3/2002
Reviewed By: Poune Saberi, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Family Practice and Community Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com