The human nasal cavity is lined with special cells that produce mucous secretions. It moisturizes, warms and cleans small particles from the air we breathe in, so that it freely passes further through the respiratory tract. The amount of mucus and its nature depend on various conditions of the body. If there are no diseases, then it is enough for the cells of the respiratory system to produce a small amount of secretion.
In the event of a large amount of mucus from the nasal cavity, diseases of the respiratory system should be suspected, especially if they have acquired a purulent or serous character. Thus, the appearance of colored mucus is an alarming symptom that requires immediate medical attention. Why do brown adult nose snot occur? We will understand this article.
What determines the color of the mucous secretion?
In the presence of an infectious process, it is the secret of the nasal passages that becomes the first obstacle to viruses or bacteria. This is due to the cells and protective mechanisms of the respiratory tract. Cells from small capillaries enter the mucus, and this will determine the color of secretions:
- White snot appears due to the secretion of leukocytes, which increase in the blood with any inflammatory disease. This is characteristic of the well-known common cold.
- Brown snot from the nose in an adult characterizes a process accompanied by the release of red blood cells. The reasons for this may be different, but the approximate stage of the pathological process (depending on the decay and conversion of red blood cells) can be determined by the hue of the discharge.
The reasons for the appearance of brown snot
Brown snot from a nose in an adult can appear for various reasons.
The described symptom usually complements a developing runny nose or sinusitis. If prolonged treatment with vasoconstrictor drugs is carried out, then atrophy of the mucosa is possible. In this case, the discharge will become a characteristic rusty color with a putrid odor. Inflammation of the sinuses is also accompanied by the appearance of brown snot. If the cavity is blocked by a specific plug, then there may be no breathing difficulties, but pulling pains appear in the nose, a feeling of heaviness is felt.
So, brown snot from a nose in an adult indicates:
- the presence in the secret of the nasal cavity of decaying blood cells;
- possible bacterial contamination in the chronic course of sinusitis or sinusitis;
- the so-called runny nose of a smoker;
- fungal diseases of the respiratory system;
- tumors: benign and malignant.
Are brown snot dangerous in an adult?
Anxiety symptoms - need to see a doctor
Brown snot by itself is not always the reason for immediate medical attention. They are common, for example, for heavy smokers. However, there are some symptoms that you should pay special attention to and when they appear in your home, you must visit a specialist. These symptoms include:
- difficulty in nasal breathing if allergies or infectious diseases have not been diagnosed before;
- ulcers or hemorrhages on the walls of the cavity;
- regularly exacerbating sinus infections;
- bleeding of unknown origin, not caused by mechanical injuries;
- highlighting different colors of an unknown cause.
Remember that a variety of pathological processes can provoke the appearance of brown snot, and sometimes timely treatment for help can cost you not only health but also life, because brown snot in an adult can also indicate malignant neoplasms.
Treatment
Only a doctor should prescribe any medications after a complete examination of the patient and the necessary tests. To get rid of unpleasant brown secretions, it is necessary to treat not this manifestation, but the cause itself. That is why you can not take medications without the appropriate doctor's prescription.
What is the treatment for thick snot brown?
In the case when other symptoms, in addition to brown snot, are absent, prescribe drugs that strengthen the mucous wall and prevent capillary bleeding. In this case, ascorbic acid, which increases collagen synthesis, Pinosol, Derinat, is suitable. These drugs are prescribed for infectious diseases, as they not only strengthen the mucous wall, but also have a pronounced antibacterial effect.
The treatment of brown discharge caused by inflammatory processes in the sinuses of the nose will depend on the stage of the particular disease. In no case should hormones be prescribed, since they will worsen the situation by making the nasal mucosa dry.
Herbal medicine and folk methods
How to rinse your nose at home? About this - below.
Treatment with decoctions and infusions of herbs can be used as an addition to the main treatment. This will not only not harm the patient, but will also facilitate his well-being and stimulate immunity.
- Chamomile. Rinsing with a decoction of this plant is very effective, since it has an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effect, and the vessels of the nasal cavity do not narrow.
- Propolis. Tincture can be used as an effective means of cleansing the nose.
- Beet. Used as nasal drops to relieve congestion and facilitate breathing.
- Kalanchoe. The juice of this plant or aloe can be instilled in its pure form without dilution. Kalanchoe also has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, disinfectant effects.
Rinse your nose
How to rinse your nose at home? Many are interested in this question.
With the development of the inflammatory process in the respiratory system, doctors strongly recommend that patients wash their nose. However, this can be done not only during the period of the disease, but also in order to prevent diseases of the respiratory system. The most common lavage method is flushing the nostrils with saline in turn. The nostril is clamped with one finger, and the second “takes in” the fluid. After some time, the fluid should exit through the mouth. The procedure must be repeated from the second nostril. Flushing the nasal passages with a runny nose or sinusitis is recommended 3-4 times a day.
Saline solution is not necessary to buy in a pharmacy - you can prepare it at home. You just need to make sure that the salt you have purchased does not contain flavorings or other undesirable components. At the same time, 3 teaspoons are mixed with 250 ml of distilled water and the procedure is carried out. If necessary, the saline solution can be replaced with physiological sodium chloride.
Various methods can be used for washing. Many people prefer to use a syringe, as doctors do in clinics. To instill small volumes of solutions or drugs into the nose, a pipette is taken. A suction aspirator can be used by a person who has some skills and experience in carrying out the washing procedure. The action of this method will be based on the principle of active movement of liquids. Esmarch's mug is useful for washing the nose with 0.5 l of saline or saline.
Prevention of brown nasal discharge
So, brown snot appeared in an adult. We considered the reasons for this.
In order not to have to face such an unpleasant symptom, it must be prevented. Prevention methods include:
- refusal of uncontrolled taking of vasoconstrictor drugs;
- daily washing of the nose with saline or saline 1 time per day;
- timely ventilation of the premises;
- selection of a wardrobe according to the weather, eliminating the possibility of hypothermia.
If everything is done correctly, then brown discharge from the nose does not threaten a person.
Output
Remember that respiratory diseases are a serious pathological process, which in the absence of proper treatment can lead to various complications. And the appearance of brown discharge from the nose is a sign that cannot be ignored. If you notice a deterioration in well-being, you should consult a doctor and follow all his recommendations. So you can maintain your health for many years to come.