Are you one of those lucky individuals who has constantly bloody snot every time they blow their nose? Fear not, for you are not alone. Many people suffer from this inconvenient and sometimes embarrassing condition without even knowing it.
In this article, we will explore the causes of bloody snot, how to manage it with some easy steps at home, and when to see a doctor if necessary.
Types of Bloody Snot
You might think that all bloody mucus is created equal – red, grosses you out… but wait! There are actually two types!
Bright Red Blood
If the blood in your snot is bright red or pinkish-red color (technically called hemoptysis), don’t worry too much. This can be caused by something as simple as blowing your nose too hard or picking at it excessively.
Darker Red/Brown Mucus
However if your mucus is deep brown/red/maroon rather than bright red/pinkish then you're in trouble! That sort of colour makes me want to run away!
This could indicate more serious conditions like infection or inflammation, sinusitis (rhinosinusitis if you want to sound smart) or allergies.
Common Causes of Bloody Snot
Diving into various medical journals on sputum/bloody discharge/offensive body fluids --I’ve found 4 common causes:
- Dry Air: As winter approaches dry indoor air mixed with heaters suck up all moisture making our nasal passages unavoidably dried out /crusty AF.
- Bruised tissuse : Sneezing after hitting yourself on the face/ getting punched on either nostril can lead bruising/injury resulting in bleeding while expelling stored clogged- up mucous.
- Infection: Allergies/Colds & Flu often leave nasal membranes inflamed and irritated, making blood vessels delicate and easily ruptured.
- Medications: Taking medications like anticoagulants (blood thinners)can lead to loss of clotting ability leading to bloody discharge.
When to See a Doctor
While all these causes sound harmless enough and can be managed at home through simple steps like drinking more water/moisturizing nostrils/regulating medication…sometimes it's not. If you experience any of the following additional symptons with bloody discharge your should immediately take matters into your own hands/literally get into an emergency room, - Chest pain - Shortness of breath - Loss of consciousness Don't wait for second opinions or arguments with Uncle John that self-diagnose colds!
The above symptoms could indicate serious conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis.
How to Manage Bloody Snot at Home
- Drink More Water - Keeping yourself hydrated is quintessential in maintaining healthy levels moisture within bodily systems. Drinking at least 8 cups/2 litres daily keeps mucous moist avoiding breakage causing nose bleeding/bloody sputum .
- Use nasal saline spray : Spray saline solution aids in moisturising nostril passages easing irritation/inflammation while flushing from sinuses grime/clogged up mucus.
- Apply Moisturizer Balm -- Using moisturizers on each nostril before bedtime assists trapped dry air pass inside out noses preventing drying skin combined with humidifiers keeping indoor environment moist helps alleviate /prevent continuous Nasal Bleeding. 4.Do not pick your nose : As tempting as it might be stay away from shoving fingers insider further injuring inner defensive mechanism opening pathways wounds/viruses enter defending bodies mainly if nails are lengthy/dirty AF/Yellow& straight-up disgusting.
Conclusion:
Bloody snot might appear intimidating but fear not – Just staying alert remaining hydrate & using various over-the-counter remedies proves effective home management. If you experience additional/smarter than above symptoms, always seek a professional opinion from your doctor. Stay Healthy & Memo to self: blow nose less/drink more water!