Bright Yellow Mucus

Bright yellow mucus occurs when the body is trying to fight off infection. Its appearance could also be due to some forms of allergies and even humid environment. Those who have it may also complain of headache, fever, fatigue and nasal congestion. Mucus changes in color from time to time and its color indicates how efficient the immune system is in fighting off foreign substances that try to invade the body.

Treating yellow mucus is fairly simple and effective. Treatment methods also come in many varieties and are usually done at home. Individuals who suffer from it may also opt to see a health care provider for proper diagnosis, especially if their symptoms are persistent. The doctor may prescribe appropriate medications such as antibiotics in the case of bacterial infections.

Cause of bright yellow mucus

Yellow mucus is something people should not be overly concerned of because it is a simple manifestation that the immune system is doing its job in preventing unwanted substances from harming the body. It is the mucus membrane which can be found on the ears, lips, nostrils, anus and genital area that produces mucus or secretions. The color of the mucus provides important information as to how the body is responding to the threat.

When a person contracts cold virus, the immune system responds by sending infection-fighting cells to get rid of the infection. These immune cells release a protein which causes the color of the mucus to change from clear to yellow or green. Yellow mucus is usually confused with phlegm, but they are totally different from each other. Phlegm is produced in the lungs while mucus is produced in the sinuses and nasal cavities.

Indications of bright yellow mucus

Yellow mucus is not related to serious health problems but its emergence could mean one of the following conditions:

• Sinus infection

Sinus infection is the leading cause of yellow-colored mucus. The sinuses are more prone to infection due to its role in keeping the air that enters the body clean and moistened. It also creates a lot of mucus to catch particles, bacteria and viruses that may harm the sinuses and the entire body.

• Allergies

Allergies can also trigger the emergence of yellow mucus. Those who have chronic allergies tend to suffer frequent bouts of bright, thick yellow mucus.

• Low humidity

Humid environment dries out the nasal passages, making them more susceptible to irritation and even bleeding.

Remedies for bright yellow mucus

There are plenty of effective and affordable ways to manage yellow mucus, these include:

• Steam inhalation

This seems to be the easiest and most effective remedy for yellow mucus. There is a long list of natural expectorants that can be used such as eucalyptus, peppermint, thyme, comfrey, and licorice. Simply put one or a combination of these herbs into boiling water and inhale the steam.

• Warm compress

Warm compresses work in breaking up the mucus, allowing it to flow naturally out of the nose.

• Acupressure

This particular therapy simply involves massaging the pressure points on the sinuses several times daily.

Drinking plenty of water, as well as eating fresh vegetables and fruits, has been found to speed up recovery from bright yellow mucus.