Where Does All That Snot Come From During a Cold?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the production of mucus during a cold, highlighting that the body can produce up to two quarts of mucus daily when ill. Mucus is primarily composed of water, mucins, dead leukocytes, and inorganic salts, serving to protect the lungs from contaminants. Histamine release in response to cold germs triggers increased mucus production, which can lead to nasal congestion. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections based on mucus color, with cloudy mucus indicating a bacterial infection.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of human anatomy, particularly the respiratory system
  • Knowledge of histamine's role in immune response
  • Familiarity with mucus composition and function
  • Basic concepts of viral versus bacterial infections
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of histamine in allergic reactions and infections
  • Learn about the anatomy and function of the respiratory system, focusing on mucus production
  • Investigate the differences between viral and bacterial infections, including symptoms and treatments
  • Explore the implications of mucus thickness and color in diagnosing respiratory conditions
USEFUL FOR

Medical students, healthcare professionals, and individuals interested in understanding respiratory health and the body's immune responses during infections.

  • #31
Mk said:
What does yellow mean?
Same thing. Bacterial.
 
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  • #32
Andy Resnick said:
A rule of thumb- if your mucus is cloudy, you have a bacterial infection. If it's clear, you have a viral infection. This is based on the size of the bug (light scattering).
Really? Huh. I'd always assumed the green/yellow was the carcasses of white blood cells.
 
  • #33
The green/yellow thing I know applies to sputum (what you cough up and spit out coming up from your lungs), but I'm not so sure it applies to nasal mucus (what comes out when you blow your nose). Every time I've ever had a cold, it starts out clear and runny, and as I start to get better and the mucus isn't produced so copiously, it thickens and gets yellowish just before finally going away (that's yellowish and cloudy, not green...green is probably still a sign of bacterial infection). Now you guys are going to make me spend my lunch hour looking up references on snot...thanks. :rolleyes:
 

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