Mucus pH varies depending on its location in the body and the individual's health. While there's no single definitive pH, it generally falls within a range.
Nasal Mucus pH
The pH of nasal mucus in healthy individuals is typically slightly acidic, ranging from 5.3 to 7.0, with a mean of around 6.3. However, this can change in certain conditions:
- Rhinitis: In individuals with rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes), the pH can increase to a range of 7.2–8.3, becoming more alkaline.
- Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS): Post-operative CRS patients may experience a decrease in nasal mucus pH, with a mean of 5.7 and a range of 3.8–7.7.
These values are supported by multiple studies [65, 66] focusing on nasal pH measurement. A study found the nasal mucosal pH to be approximately 5.5-6.5 in healthy individuals, increasing in rhinitis to 7.2-8.3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10196653/
Other Mucus Locations
The pH of mucus in other parts of the body can differ significantly. For example:
- Airway Mucus: Studies on airway mucus have shown varying pH levels, influenced by factors like cystic fibrosis (CF). In CF, a more acidic airway surface liquid contributes to increased mucus viscosity. https://medicine.uiowa.edu/content/increased-acidity-may-affect-mucus-viscosity-altering-electrostatic-interactions-between In contrast, mucus from non-CF submucosal glands has a pH around 7.46, similar to the basolateral solution. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1534580720305505 Average sputum pH has been reported to be around 7.25. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2929530/
- Cervical/Vaginal Mucus: The pH of cervical and vaginal mucus plays a crucial role in fertility. This is a separate area of study and not directly related to the overall mucus pH range. https://www.scielo.br/j/medical/a/qjRg5mV765Dvs5tYjCtBwyC/
- Stomach Mucus: Alkaline mucus protects stomach tissue from the acidic environment. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alkaline_mucus
In summary, mucus pH is highly variable and context-dependent. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the complexities of mucus pH and its significance in health and disease.
