- #1
Gerenuk
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Why do we sneeze out this yellow stuff, when we have a cold? Does it have to do with bacteria? Are they collected somehow?
What Color is Snot When Sick and Why?
- Medical
- Thread starter Gerenuk
- Start date
In summary, mucus is produced during an infection in order to protect the body and is typically green. The color change may occur due to the state of the immune system.
- #2
Monique
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I'll venture an answer to this sticky question 
Mucus is normally clear, it functions as a natural protection mechanism of your body. During an infection you produce an increased amount of mucus and white blood cells (neutrophils) are attracted to the area to fight the infection. The neutrophils will try and combat the infection by engulfing the pathogen and secreting toxins. Some will die in the process, creating a pus. The enzyme myeloperoxidase that is excreted by the neutrophils seems to be to blame for a greenish color of infected mucus, due to the high iron-content.
Mucus is normally clear, it functions as a natural protection mechanism of your body. During an infection you produce an increased amount of mucus and white blood cells (neutrophils) are attracted to the area to fight the infection. The neutrophils will try and combat the infection by engulfing the pathogen and secreting toxins. Some will die in the process, creating a pus. The enzyme myeloperoxidase that is excreted by the neutrophils seems to be to blame for a greenish color of infected mucus, due to the high iron-content.- #3
Gerenuk
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Oh scary...
And this happens in the nose only? Why?
There is not transport of pathogens to the nose?
And this happens in the nose only? Why?
There is not transport of pathogens to the nose?
- #4
Monique
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Your nose is lined by a thin mucous membrane, it is where the outside air is filtered and moistened before it enters your lungs. It is where pathogens have easy access, they also really like the moist environment.
- #5
hypatia
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Purulent rhinitis, is the correct name for colored snots. A out dated rule of thought was if your snot was yellow or green, the Doctor would automatically give you antibiotics. Now they know better, and wait for other signs of infection. Most often we just ride it out, with a lot of tea and soup.
- #6
Monique
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Especially since antibiotics don't work against a viral infection.hypatia said:
- #7
lyu0001
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It possibly means that you have lower immune system while foreigh infections attacked your body. Immune cells couldn't clean faster than normal condition and caused cell damages that what the yellow stuff you see.
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Immune cells clean infections by releasing cytotoxins, interleukin factors ,etc. The damage includes pathogens, infeceted cells and normal injured cells.
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Immune cells clean infections by releasing cytotoxins, interleukin factors ,etc. The damage includes pathogens, infeceted cells and normal injured cells.
- #8
WadeS
- 13
- 0
That is bacteria or more like slavia. It's not only yellow depending on how sick you are it will change: Clear=your imune system is safe. Yellow= you're immune system is in war but is winning.Green= very bad,you're immune system is losing to bacteria. Green rarely happens but to be sure I'm proud to tell you so it can prevent more sickness.
Wade.
Wade.
FAQ: What Color is Snot When Sick and Why?
Why does my snot turn yellow when I'm sick?
The yellow color of snot is due to the presence of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, which are part of the immune system's response to infection. These cells contain an enzyme called myeloperoxidase, which gives snot its yellow or green color.
Is yellow snot a sign of a bacterial infection?
Not necessarily. While yellow snot can indicate a bacterial infection, it can also be a sign of a viral infection. It is important to consult with a doctor to determine the cause of your illness and the appropriate treatment.
Does the consistency of my snot affect its color?
Yes, the thickness or viscosity of snot can affect its color. Thicker mucus tends to trap more bacteria and white blood cells, leading to a yellow or green color. Thinner mucus, on the other hand, is more likely to be clear or white.
How long does yellow snot usually last during a cold or illness?
The duration of yellow snot can vary depending on the cause of your illness. If it is due to a viral infection, it may last for a few days to a week. If it is caused by a bacterial infection, it may last longer and require antibiotics to clear it up.
Is it normal to have yellow snot without being sick?
Yes, it is normal to have yellow snot even when you are not sick. Your body produces mucus to trap and remove bacteria, viruses, and other irritants from your nose and throat. However, if the color of your snot changes or if you experience other symptoms, it is best to consult with a doctor to rule out any underlying issues.