A lot of things can make us have a runny nose. Allergies, spicy food and many illnesses fit into that category. Most of the time, what comes out is clear. That’s a good thing, because that’s what it should look like. If it isn’t, something is going on and it may need some attention.
White: It could be an inflammation of your sinus and/or nasal passages. This could be caused by allergies or a virus, particularly rhinoviruses (the common cold). Most of the time, this does not require a trip to the doctor. However, if it continues for a long period of time or other symptoms appear, that could change.
Red: Naturally, red in your mucus means blood. It could be from very dry air, nasal rotorooting, high blood pressure, a virus or an infection. If you know it’s one of the first two, you’re probably fine, though it might be wise not to go back to bad childhood habits for a while.
There are nasal solutions available over the counter for dried out nasal and sinus passages. If you live in an area that has low humidity, it might be wise to keep some on hand.
If you have a home blood pressure kit (which I recommend for every household), check your blood pressure a couple of times a day for a week. If it is regularly higher than 130/70, make a doctor’s appointment. It’s best to catch high blood pressure early so it can’t damage your body.
Red from an infection usually isn’t the only color you’re going to get. If it’s a virus, you will probably see it mixed with the thick, white stuff mentioned earlier. If it’s an infection, you’ll probably see another color.
Green: While it isn’t always the case, green mucus has a tendency to point to an infection. This is especially true if it is mixed with either or both of the colors above. While it may not mean you need an antibiotic, it does mean that a trip to the doctor is in order.
The color of your mucus is usually not the only symptom you’ll have if there is something at work in your body. Headaches, swollen sinuses or glands in the throat and sometimes a fever are likely. You may also have the stuff draining down the back of your throat, causing a sore throat and a cough. These are common to all of the problems above, with the possible exceptions of dry air and nose picking (isn’t there a more polite term?).
If your symptoms make you uncomfortable or you suspect that you have an infection, go ahead and call your doctor. He or she may be able to advise you over the phone as to how to handle it. You may not have to make an appointment, but it’s better to play it safe.