"What Causes Greenish-Yellow Nasal Mucus?"

Mucus with Greenish-Yellow Hue: Potential Causes and Treatment

The presence of greenish-yellow mucus in the nose may be associated with nasal foreign bodies, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic atrophic rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal polyps, and other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for appropriate management. Details are as follows:

1. Nasal Foreign Bodies

If a foreign object enters the nasal cavity and is not promptly removed, it can irritate the nasal mucosa and lead to secondary bacterial infection, resulting in greenish-yellow mucus accompanied by pain. Seek medical attention immediately, and let the doctor remove the foreign body using specialized tools under nasal endoscopy. Follow the doctor's advice to apply medications such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or naphazoline hydrochloride nasal drops to promote inflammation resolution.

2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

This may be caused by bacterial infection, leading to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract mucosa, manifested as yellow mucus discharge, nasal congestion, and cough. Drink plenty of water, approximately 2000ml per day, to aid recovery. Take antibiotics prescribed by the doctor, such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime tablets, or cefradine capsules, to combat infection and reduce inflammation.

3. Chronic Atrophic Rhinitis

Due to environmental factors or chronic rhinitis, the nasal mucosa may develop chronic inflammation with atrophy, resulting in a small amount of yellow discharge and possible dry pain in the nose. Under the guidance of a doctor, medications like mometasone furoate nasal spray, budesonide nasal spray, or furosemide nasal drops can be used to gradually improve symptoms.

4. Sinusitis

Commonly seen in chronic cases, sinusitis is caused by bacterial infection, leading to purulent mucus discharge, nasal congestion, headache, and recurrent episodes. Follow the doctor's instructions to use medications like Tongqiao Biyan Pian, Qianbai Biyan Pian, or oxymetazoline hydrochloride nasal drops to facilitate nasal ventilation and drainage. Additionally, apply local heat therapy using a warm, damp towel for 15 minutes, twice daily.

5. Nasal Polyps

Long-term inflammation may stimulate the formation of polypoid tissue in the nasal cavity, blocking the nasal passages and causing mucus accumulation that oxidizes to a greenish-yellow color. Surgical intervention, such as endoscopic polypectomy, is generally required. Additionally, maxillary sinus cysts can also present similarly. During illness, keep warm to avoid exacerbating symptoms. Remember, a single symptom cannot definitively diagnose a condition; detailed examination is necessary.