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What Causes Unilateral Yellow Nasal Discharge?

Posted on Thu, 31 Aug 2017

Question: I have had a thin, yellow fluid dripping from one side of my nose . I went .to the Dr. She said it was a sinus infection. I took a 10 day supply of antibiotics. It did help but three weeks later it is back. I did fall and hit the side of my face about a month ago. I read on the internet where this can be cracked sinuses. Then something about the fluid could be from your brain. I don't think I did this. If so, what would be other symptoms? Also, this has the worst smell!!! Should I just repeat antibiotics?

Answered by Dr. Priyanka Aggarwal (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Nasal discharge

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare Magic and thanks for putting up the query
You are right one sided nasal discharge can be cerebrospinal fluid. Collect the fluid and get the csf analysis done.
There are some signs like one cannot sniff back the CSF and it doesn't harden up in a hanky.
It would be best to get the fluid tested. You can also get a cisternography done.
Any further questions are always welcome.
Take care
Thanks and regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Priyanka Aggarwal (11 hours later)

The doctor has put me on another round of antibiotics. I will take this because she believes this is a sinus infection. Is there any danger in me just doing what she says? Could this be life threatening? Also I will try the snif test and hanky test.
Thank you

Answered by Dr. Priyanka Aggarwal (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Nasal discharge

Detailed Answer:
Hi
If it is cerebrospinal fluid, it should be investigated and and defect leading to CSF leakage should be repaired.
I think you should get it investigated and ruled out.
Csf rhinorrhoea can lead to complications, so it should not be ignored.
I hope my advise proves useful for you.
Take care
Thanks and regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad