How to Identify Serious Drainage from Nose Symptoms

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Nikitha Reddy

Drainage from the nose refers to the release of mucus or fluid from the nasal passages, which can be clear, thick, or discolored based on the cause. This symptom may occur due to respiratory infections, allergic reactions, sinus inflammation, or exposure to irritants, all of which can stimulate excess mucus production or block normal nasal drainage

Consult a Specialist

Browse our qualified specialists and book an appointment with the doctor that best fits your needs.

Find a Doctor

Types of Drainage From The Nose

Drainage from the nose can result from infections, allergies, or irritants. Understanding the type of nasal discharge helps in narrowing down the possible conditions.

Primary types

Watery discharge: This type of discharge is usually associated with allergies or viral infections.
Mucopurulent discharge: This is yellow or green mucus that is common with a bacterial infection.

Secondary Types

Continuous discharge of mucus
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Itching or watering eyes (in case of allergies)
There is severe sinus pain or a headache Symptoms occur after a head injury
There is difficulty breathing or swallowing

Drainage From the Nose Common Causes

Nasal drainage can result from a variety of conditions, ranging from mild infections to underlying allergies or structural issues in the nasal passages.

Viral upper respiratory infections (common cold), allergic reactions, exposure to cold weather.
Acute sinusitis, vasomotor rhinitis, overuse of decongestant nasal sprays.
Foreign objects in the nose, skull base fractures, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.
Sudden viral infections, immediate allergic responses.
Chronic sinusitis, long-term allergic rhinitis, structural nasal deformities.
Exposure to allergens (pollen, pet dander), dry air, air pollution, smoking.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Drainage From The Nose Symptoms

Nasal drainage is often accompanied by additional symptoms depending on the cause:

Common Symptoms

Allergic rhinitis
Acute and chronic sinusitis
Non-allergic rhinitis
Nasal polyps
Deviated nasal septum
Upper respiratory tract infections
Cerebrospinal fluid leak (in rare cases)

When to See a Doctor?

Though often harmless, some cases require medical attention:

Clear, persistent drainage following head trauma.
Sudden onset of high fever with thick nasal discharge.
Visual changes or severe headache with drainage.
Drainage lasting more than 10 days.
Recurring episodes interfering with daily life.
Ineffectiveness of over-the-counter treatments.

If you have symptom of drainage from nose? - Meet our ent

Schedule Your Appointment

Drainage From The Nose Diagnosis & Tests

Evaluation may involve physical exams and specific tests to determine the cause:

Physical Exams:

Nasal endoscopy
ENT examination

Lab Tests:

Nasal swab cultures
Allergy testing

Imaging Tests:

Sinus X-ray or CT scan (to check for sinus infections or structural issues)

Specialized Diagnostics:

Beta-2 transferrin test (to confirm CSF leak if suspected)

Drainage From the Nose Treatment

Treatment for nasal drainage often includes:

Avoiding known allergens
Using over-the-counter allergy medications
Staying hydrated to help thin the mucus
Using nasal saline sprays or rinses
For bacterial infections, antibiotics may be prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Home Remedies

Steam inhalation
Warm compress on sinuses
Saline nasal spray

Lifestyle Changes

Quit smoking
Stay hydrated
Get adequate sleep and manage stress

Conclusion

Remember, while a runny nose is often not serious, persistent or severe symptoms warrant medical attention to rule out any underlying conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Book Doctor Appointment

Name*

Mobile Number*

I agree to the Medicover Privacy Policy

International Patient Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Normal drainage is clear and thin, often due to mild irritation. Abnormal drainage may be thick, discolored, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever or pain.

Yes, chronic nasal drainage can be linked to sinusitis, allergies, nasal polyps, or even cerebrospinal fluid leaks in rare cases. Identifying the cause is important for treatment.

Cold weather can cause your nasal passages to produce more mucus to humidify dry air. This often results in clear, watery drainage that usually improves with warmer indoor conditions.

Spicy foods can trigger temporary nasal drainage due to nerve stimulation. It's generally harmless and resolves quickly once the food's effects wear off from your system.

Mild uneven drainage can be normal, but persistent drainage from one nostril could indicate infection, a deviated septum, or a polyp and may require medical evaluation.

Yes, drainage can sometimes occur alone due to irritants like smoke, perfume, or dry air. If it's frequent or unexplained, consult a doctor to rule out underlying causes.

Using a humidifier, avoiding allergens, staying hydrated, and maintaining good nasal hygiene can reduce drainage. Regular saline rinses also help clear irritants from the nose.