Nasal discharge

Runny and stuffy nose

Throat anatomy

Definition

Nasal discharge is any mucus-like material that comes out of the nose.

Alternative Names

Runny nose; Postnasal drip; Rhinorrhea

Considerations

Nasal discharge is common, but rarely serious. Drainage from swollen or infected sinuses may be thick or discolored.

Excess mucus may run down the back of your throat (postnasal drip) or cause a cough that is usually worse at night. A sore throat may also result from too much mucus drainage.

The mucus drainage may plug up the eustachian 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

Bacterial infections
Colds
Flu
Hay fever
Head injury
Nasal sprays
Sinusitis
Small objects in the nostril (especially in children)

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Nasal discharge

Review Date: 08/02/2009
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).