There are many things worth pondering in life, such as human destiny or the vastness of the universe. However, very few of us dare to question the nature of nasal mucus. We only pay attention to it temporarily when we feel an itch in our noses.
There is a valid reason explaining why nasal mucus is a ubiquitous component in the nasal cavity: It is a sign that the respiratory system is being well protected. Many things can enter the human body through the nose. When we breathe, germs and allergens can be inhaled. If everything that enters through the human nose could reach the lungs, our respiratory organs would struggle more, specifically in processing O2 and expelling CO2.
To ensure the lungs can function freely without obstruction, mucus (also known as “nasal secretion”) adheres to particles passing through the nose to block or slow their progress. From this phenomenon, we can understand why the human body produces a lot of mucus when catching a cold – it is a reaction to prevent viruses from entering the respiratory system.
Not all nasal mucus is the same.
Mucus also plays another defensive role: preventing the airways from drying out. If the inside of the nose becomes too dry and starts to crack, it creates an opportunity for germs to invade the body. Therefore, mucus has the crucial task of keeping the nasal passages moist.
While performing these tasks, mucus, along with tiny nasal hairs, prevents dust and other particles from entering the nose. All of this combination results in the formation of nasal mucus.
As you can see, not all nasal mucus is the same. For instance, some forms of mucus are sticky, while others are clumpy. This often indicates how long the mucus has been in the nose. A hardened layer of mucus can remain in the nose longer and become drier compared to liquid mucus.
Thus, we may frequently encounter nasal mucus of varying sizes, textures, and consistencies in our noses; at that time, feel free to forget they are there. However, if you notice a significant increase in mucus production or a change in color, it could be a sign that you are experiencing allergies or about to come down with an illness. Therefore, continue to monitor your condition and seek medical advice if you start to develop a fever or other symptoms.
