Sinus and nasal mucus - its shades, the allergy connection and how to get rid of it

Sinus and nasal mucus - its shades, the allergy connection and how to get rid of it

In a variety of hues and consistencies, it is one of the most vile and annoying aspects of our humanity. Have you wondered if that color slime really means anything? Or is it just another way in which nature displays its many colors - here to camouflage a happy but vital function? Could some relevant data make it more bearable the next time you have to deal with it? Let's try it.

Mucus is both a filter and a humidifier for our respiratory system. These two functions are crucial for our wonderful breathing device to function smoothly. They prevent it from becoming clogged or contaminated. Imagine what would happen if all the slime traps of viruses, germs and foreign particles were allowed to run free and bring their nefarious results. Life would be pretty miserable. Slime not only traps these unwanted elements but disposes of them in ingenious ways. It also washes away irritants that would otherwise torment us: itchy noses, infected sinuses, long coughing fits.

Slime colors

Allergies, on the other hand, often play an important role in the production of nasal and sinus mucus. The key word is: “irritation” of the sinuses and nasal membranes from things like: house dust, pollen, smoke, smog, chemical fumes, dust particles. These membranes are programmed to remove anything that is foreign to them or biochemically unacceptable. In this way, they produce an abundance of secretions to wash away anything they deem potentially harmful. This secretion is called mucus formhistamine. It is usually clear, but as an infection develops it changes to a light yellow, then a darker yellow. If a secondary bacterial infection eventually develops, the color could also turn green.

Allergies

The best thing is to avoid the allergic irritation at all. This can be achieved by blocking the body's immune system's automatic response to incoming perceived threats. so that the production of histamine is blocked. And here is the reason why antihistamines have become a popular medication. The disadvantage of this simple therapy is that it has side effects. One of them is drowsiness, with its potential risks when having to drive, work with machines, etc. However, sometimes the allergic reactions are so overwhelming that antihistamines are not very effective. In these cases, the immune system must be desensitized to certain allergens.

How to get rid of mucus

If you suspect that a particular item is causing a severe allergic reaction, approach that item. Take a deep breath and see what happens. If you are allergic to it, you will soon notice it: sneezing, heavy histamine production, itchy eyes, nose, or both will immediately follow. Depending on the severity of the reaction, you should see an allergist who may recommend skin allergy testing. They are performed by injecting very small amounts of serum of the suspected allergen directly under the skin to see what type of reaction it causes. For example, a red disk around the injected point would be a positive response; The size of the plate would indicate the severity of the reaction. The test is relatively painless and is the best way to determine if you have allergies that you may need to be desensitized to. This is then achieved through regular allergy shots.

If you have a chronic abundance of mucus and allergy tests that show a strong sensitivity to certain allergens, the best way to get rid of that mucus and enjoy life more normally again is to get regular allergy shots.

Inspired by Paul Sanchez