How Does Nasal Drainage Work?
Nasal drainage, or a runny nose, is a common experience resulting from the body's natural mucus production mechanism. Excess mucus leads to discharge from the nostrils, varying from clear fluid to thick mucus. Sometimes, this mucus drains down the back of the throat, causing irritation, a condition known as postnasal drip. [^1, ^2]
Our bodies produce mucus to lubricate the sinuses and protect against irritants and germs. [^4] When inflammation occurs due to factors like infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, or airborne irritants, [^3] the nasal passages produce more mucus than usual. [^7] This excess mucus manifests as nasal drainage.
Drainage Pathways
The sinuses drain through the nasal cavity, not the eyes. [^5] When drainage is blocked, due to inflammation or other issues, mucus builds up in the sinuses, potentially leading to discomfort and further complications. [^9] Proper sinus drainage is crucial; problems arise when this drainage is obstructed. [^4]
Causes of Increased Mucus Production
Several factors contribute to increased mucus production and subsequent nasal drainage:
- Infections: Viral or bacterial infections inflame the nasal lining, triggering increased mucus production.
- Allergies: Allergens trigger inflammation and an overproduction of mucus. [^7, ^10]
- Irritants: Airborne irritants like dust or pollutants can cause similar responses. [^3]
- Medications: Some medications can thicken mucus, exacerbating drainage issues. [^10]
- Vasomotor rhinitis: This condition causes an oversensitive nose, leading to increased mucus production. [^10]
Managing Nasal Drainage
While typically not a serious issue, persistent or excessive nasal drainage might require medical attention. Techniques like nasal irrigation can help clear out excess mucus and moisten the nasal passages, removing allergens. [^8] However, the underlying cause should be addressed for long-term relief. For blocked sinuses, endoscopic sinus surgery may be considered in severe cases. [^6]
[^1]: Mass Eye and Ear. Nasal Drainage. https://masseyeandear.org/conditions/nasal-drainage
[^2]: WebMD. What Is Postnasal Drip: Sore Throat From Sinus Drainage. https://www.webmd.com/allergies/postnasal-drip
[^3]: WebMD. What Is Postnasal Drip: Sore Throat From Sinus Drainage. https://www.webmd.com/allergies/postnasal-drip
[^4]: American Sinus Institute. Where Does Sinus Drainage Go? https://www.americansinus.com/blog/where-does-sinus-drainage-go/
[^5]: Mayo Clinic Health System. Unlocking the mystery of your sinuses. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/unlocking-the-mystery-of-your-sinuses
[^6]: Johns Hopkins Medicine. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/endoscopic-sinus-surgery
[^7]: MedStar Health. Finding Relief from Post-Nasal Drip. https://www.medstarhealth.org/blog/post-nasal-drip
[^8]: UCLA Health. Risks and rewards of nasal rinses: What you need to know. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/risks-and-rewards-of-nasal-rinses-what-you-need-to-know
[^9]: Harvard Health. What to do about sinusitis. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/what_to_do_about_sinusitis
[^10]: ENT Health. Post-nasal Drip. https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/post-nasal-drip/
