1. Clear

Clear mucus is considered "normal" or healthy. Generally, increased production of clear mucus is caused by swelling of the mucous membranes in the nose. There are various causes, such as allergies (pet dander, dust, or pollen) or fever. This type of mucus can also appear without exposure to allergens.

This clear-colored mucus is considered normal because the nasal tissue produces it all the time. If it is not expelled through the nose, it will flow down the back of the throat to be dissolved in the stomach.

2. White

White snot may occur due to a blockage in the nose, for example during a flu, cold, or nasal infection. When swelling occurs, the inflamed tissue slows down the flow of mucus, then causes the water content of the mucus to disappear (the moisture is lost), so that it becomes thicker and cloudier.

3. Yellow

Yellow mucus is a sign that the body is fighting an infection (which is ongoing). The white color comes from cells, such as white blood cells, which are moving towards the site of infection to kill foreign objects. Once the cells have completed their work, they are expelled along with the snot, which causes them to turn dark yellowish in color.

4. Green

Green snot is produced when the body's immune system tries hard to fight an infection. Not only is the color unusual, but the texture has also changed, namely it has become very thick. The green color comes from dead white blood cells and foreign objects or other waste products. The causes include sinuses or the presence of a foreign object in the nasal passages.

Yellow or green mucus does not always indicate that a person has an infection. This is because the color change can occur as a result of the large number of bacteria growing in the nose. If they persist long enough and get into the lining or tissue of the nose, then it is called an infection.

Signs of infection will depend on what you feel and experience, and how long it lasts. If you still feel fine, then actually there is no need to be treated with any antibiotics even if it lasts for some time, but if it is accompanied by other discomfort, then that is the time to get checked.

If yellow or green snot is accompanied by other symptoms, immediately check with the nearest health service facility.

5. Chocolate

Brown or orange snot may be caused by old blood. However, the most likely cause is inhaling something red or brown that causes colored mucus to be produced, such as dirt, tobacco, or paprika.

6. Black

Black snot generally occurs because someone has a smoking habit, lives in an environment with smokers, is in an environment with exposure to heavy air pollution, or has a fungal infection. However, black snot can also be a sign of a fungal infection in the sinuses. This condition is not common, but people with a weakened immune system are susceptible to it.

7. Pink or Red

Pink or red mucus indicates there is blood in it. The cause could be cleaning your nose too often, dryness, irritation, or an impact. Apart from that, this condition may also occur in pregnant women due to increased blood volume, hormones, or swelling of the nasal passages. Therefore, make sure to gently clean your nose, cut your nails, spray saline, or use a humidifier to moisturize it.

Red mucus can occur because the nose is dry, irritated, or experiencing a blow.

By knowing the meaning of each color of snot, we can find out whether the condition needs immediate examination or not. Even though it is not a definite sign, at least these changes in color and texture can give us clues about our own health condition. Come on, share this important information with your loved ones!

Hey, grab the Fitie app now for cool tips and other fun stuff!