What the Color of Your Snot Says About Your Health

Allergy season is here, and with it come the sniffles, sneezes and the inevitable moment when you glance at a tissue and wonder, “Wait…is that color normal?” 

We’re talking about mucus. Yep, snot. It may not be glamorous, but the color of your nasal discharge can actually offer some insight into what’s going on inside your body. As pollen counts rise and tissues pile up,

Robert Wilson, MD, a family medicine physician at Roane County Family Practice, offers insights regarding what your snot might be trying to tell you. 

The Snot Color Decoder 

Clear Mucus: Totally Normal

Clear mucus is usually a sign of a healthy, well-hydrated nose.

“Clear mucus helps keep your nose and sinuses moist and traps dust and allergens,” Dr. Wilson says. It can also show up as a result of early stages of a cold, irritants like smoke or perfumes, or seasonal allergies. “If your body is reacting to allergies, it may produce more clear mucus than usual,” he notes.

Dr. Wilson cautions, “If you have continuous clear nasal drainage after trauma, such as a concussion, an accident or a fall, it could indicate a skull fracture and should be eavluated immediately.”

White Mucus: A Sign of Congestion

Thicker, white might signal inflamed and swollen nasal tissues.

“White mucus can show up when your nose is swollen or stuffy,” Dr. Wilson says. “It’s thicker because it’s not flowing as easily.” Common causes include:

• A cold or respiratory infection
• Dehydration
• Sinus pressure 

Yellow Mucus: Immune System at Work

When your immune system kicks into gear, your mucus may turn yellow. It means your body is fighting something off. Common causes are viral infections (like a cold or the flu) or a mild sinus infection.

As the immune system respods to the virus, the mucus may become yellow or green because of the presence of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils. These cells release enzymes that can alter the color of the mucus.

“There’s a misconception that if you have yellow or green mucus, you need antibiotics,” Dr. Wilson says. “This is not true. Changes in color are normal in the natural course of a viral infection, and most of the time, the virus will go away on its own.”

Green Mucus: More Inflammation

This color indicates more inflammation and occurs when your body is creating a stronger immune response. “The longer mucus stays in your sinuses, the greener it can look” Dr. Wilson says. Common causes are:

• Sinus infections (viral or bacterial)
• Colds that are lingering
• Bronchitis

Dr. Wilson notes, “If green mucus sticks around longer than 10 days or you have fever or facial pain, it could indicate a bacterial infection. In this case, you should see your healthcare provider.”

Red or Brown Mucus: Blood in the Mix

Spotting some pink, red, or rusty colors in your mucus? You’re likely seeing some blood. “This is often caused by irritation, like dry air or blowing your nose a lot,” Dr. Wilson says. Common causes are:

• Allergies and frequent sneezing
• Dry nasal passages
• Minor nosebleeds
• Smoking

A humidifier may help, but if you see a lot of blood in your mucus or it persists, get it checked by your physician. “Please don’t ignore blood in your mucus. It can signal a serious underlying health issue,” Dr. Wilson advises.

Black Mucus: Time to Check in

Black mucus is rare and needs attention. It may be a result of exposure to heavy pollutants like dust or smoke. But it can also signal a fungal infection or a more serious health issue, especially if you have a weakened immune system. Common causes include:

• Smoking or vaping
• Breathing in dust, soot or smoke
• Fungal infections

When to See a Doctor 

Most snot color changes are harmless and go away on their own. But if symptoms stick around for more than 10 days, you develop a fever, or you experience facial pain or pressure, your primary care provider can help determine whether it’s time for treatment.

So the next time you blow your nose and pause for a quick color check, don’t panic. Your snot might just be trying to tell you something. And if you have questions or need support this allergy season, Covenant Health is here to help. 

Don’t have a primary care provider? Find one near you.