How does mucus form during cold?
Normally, mucus production during the day and at night helps to protect your body’s respiratory system, trapping airborne germs, viruses and other particles that may lead to infections. During cold season, however, when the air is full of germs and your immune system is weakened, your body produces more mucus to protect itself from getting sick. This increased production of mucus is called mucus hypersecretion.
How to prevent mucus buildup during cold?
The usual cause of mucus production during colds is an infection of the upper respiratory tract, and it’s important to follow the doctor’s advice about what to do when infected. Colds are treated with medicines to thin and loosen mucus and reduce symptoms. If you have a chronic sinus infection, you may need to see a doctor to determine if you need more aggressive treatment.
What causes mucus to form in your nose during a cold?
A nasal infection and inflammation cause the membranes lining the nose to secrete thick, sticky mucus. This mucus acts as a protective barrier to irritants, trapping airborne pathogens and pollutants for easy removal. Additionally, the mucus traps water, which helps flush out the infection and all the gunk it causes.
What causes blocked sinuses during cold?
There are two main causes of sinus congestion: infection and allergy. People who suffer from allergies are more susceptible to developing sinusitis because they have a more sensitive immune system. When pollen invades the nose, it causes swelling and irritation. This allergic reaction triggers mucus production to clean out the irritated membranes. If the sinus infection is not treated, it may lead to chronic sinusitis, which is a prolonged sinus infection that causes a thick, greenish discharge that can sometimes be
What causes nasal congestion to get worse during a cold?
Your nose produces mucus to trap germs and protect it from airborne pollutants. If you have a runny nose, that’s usually not a problem. However, if your nasal passages become stuffed with thick mucus, it’s much harder to breathe and feels uncomfortable.