Have you ever found yourself constantly reaching for a tissue and wondering, "Why do I need to blow my nose so much?" Well, buckle up because we're about to dive into the world of snot and boogers.
The Science Behind It
First things first, let's talk about mucus. Mucus is produced by your body as a way to protect your nasal passages from outside intruders like dust and pollen. It's made up of water, proteins, salt, and other chemicals that are essential for keeping your body healthy. We usually produce around one quart of mucus per day!
Now here comes the fun part: when our bodies detect something foreign in our noses or we get sick with an infection like a cold or flu virus - it produces more mucus than usual which causes congestion. That feeling of blockage? Caused by too much extra fluid trapped in your nostrils!
Your body reacts by sending more blood flow straight to that area- aka the phenomenon known as being “nasal” congested just means you're richer in red stuff there!
The faster white blood cells can make their way towards any invaders resulting in inflammation (swelling) locally at first before becoming systemic (affecting multiple places). This process helps hopefully clear out bad germs via sniffles or sneezes alongside washing everything away with fluids such as tears etc while cleaning mechanisms kick off elsewhere 🤧
When all these defenses go off together its quite helpful if they work properly but sometimes there might be problems getting rid quickly meaning leftover wet blocks clogging airways ┐(‘～`;)┌💦 . Like we always say 'the nose knows' especially how to moisten those pesky irritants!
All this excess production can cause them collect after rising upwards to settle into undesirable places like the sinuses which start being constant problems on top of basic congestion; hello saline spray! (It feels weird at first but trust us it's worth a try).
Types of Mucus
Not all mucus is created equal - sorry to break it to you. There are actually different types of mucus distinguished by its color, consistency and texture.
Clear/Thin Mucus
This type of snot indicates that your body is working properly and just doing its job normally, humidifying air before sending it downward
Thick/Green Mucus
When things get heavy duty with bacteria fighting this lovely shade becomes more common as an indicator for straight red flag "you're sick!"
The yellow/green said pathogen indiciator can take longer to clear out than thinner mucosal secrets so just keep reminding yourself 'feeling better soon! Feeling better soon!' Alongside good hygiene naturally ☆ﾟ.･｡ ﾟ☆☞(fewer germs floating around)
Bloody or Brownish Discharge
No need to panic if there's mixed colors from blood vessels opening up in nasal cavities after dryness due irritation etc nothing serious unless consistent issues surrounding bleeding persist then seek professional help ASAP. Eep 🦷⚕️
Contributing Factors To Frequent Nose Blowing & Congestion
There could be myriad culprits behind blowing one's nose constantly alongside any extra muggling sounds aka running noses, especially during times when colds are always rampant: 冫、`‿´、冫 , here are some reasons why:
Allergies!
Environment related allergies like pet dander, dust-mites indoor or outdoor environmental pollutants including pollen we usually shrug off as seasonal flu-like symptoms till someone convinces you otherwise 😅 Remember that time you went ham on someone's new cat? Mistakes may be learnt from the hard way. 🐈🤧 Seek medical advice especially if persistent
Sinus Infection or Cold
A common cause of congestion and frequent nose blowing is a cold, flu, virus or other respiratory infection. Although these illnesses can vary in severity they all make it difficult for your body to move mucus out properly! Get some extra rest as much as possible alongside hydration & gentle activity (if want)
- Difficulty breathing
- Feeling exhausted easily Look for accompanied fever over 101° Fahrenheit/38.3 Celsius
Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones are no joke; throw allergies sneeze fits atop pressure on sinuses this makes expecting mothers even more susceptible to nasal congestion so using accessories like vaporizers, humidifiers etc becomes hygienic aids!
Deviated Septum
This occurs when the wall between your nostrils shifts position with time (even straight after birth). This means there might be one nostril that allows air to flow through easily while the other goes below par causing you having to constantly blow one side..and also causes snoring too.
Preventing Extra Nose Blows / Keeping Your Nose Healthy
If you're looking for ways to reduce how often you have to grab a tissue box here are some tips:
Keep Hydrated / Drink Water Regularly!
Drinking water helps keep mucus thin enough not becoming the disgusting booger blobs problem makers fear - less thick snot equals easier movement thereby leaving airways clear . We recommend increase intake throughout day alongside food rich in nutrients such bananas, carrots spinach which help minimize dehydration loss potential flushing toxins efficiently by gastrointestinal sweating excretion.(Take note before excessive coffee/vices come into play!)
Use A Humidifier Or Vaporizer While Sleeping peacefully
Humidity can help moisten dry nasal passages preventing membrane injury from happening( lower risk if immune system stays strong!) This can go a long way in preventing congestion! Plus try adding essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus to your humidifier for some extra soothing relief.
Keep Nasal Passages Moisturized
Using saline nose spray every once in awhile -or applying ointments under doctor advice- not only moistens nasal passages, but also helps remove any harmful bacteria floating around sinuses!
When To See A Doctor/Seek Medical Attention
Although frequent nose blowing is common and usually nothing to worry about ( related lifestyle habits), there are times when it's important to seek medical attention:
- If you've been experiencing symptoms for more than two weeks without improvement
- If you're experiencing severe pain, fever over 101°Fahrenheit or other concerning symptoms -Loss of sense; loss of vision ;headaches as side accompanying issues etc
In the end, remember that everybody needs to blow their nose from time to time - it’s healthy! Our body does an amazing job at regulating its mucus production on its own 🙂
So take care of yourself by embracing better hygiene practices while giving your body what maximum support it deserves ٩(◕‿◕)۶