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What Does Blood With Mucus When Suffering From Cold Indicate?
Question: Hi there,
I've been having a cold for the past week or so and notice blood coming out when I attempt to clear my nostrils (blood mixed with mucous). Have been trying to manage this conservatively at home by using a nasal decongestant (saline spray) , vicks and nyquil. I have no history of sinusitis. Is it time to see a doctor?
Your valuable insights would be much appreciated
I've been having a cold for the past week or so and notice blood coming out when I attempt to clear my nostrils (blood mixed with mucous). Have been trying to manage this conservatively at home by using a nasal decongestant (saline spray) , vicks and nyquil. I have no history of sinusitis. Is it time to see a doctor?
Your valuable insights would be much appreciated
Brief Answer:
not yet
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
Usually if you have sinus congestion and lots of mucus it is from a viral infection. Managing at home with nasal saline, vicks and nyquil is good and viruses usually clear in one to two weeks. If it persists for more than two weeks it may be time to see a doctor. We usually do not start people on antibiotics for sinusitis unless they have had sinus pain and congestion for more than two weeks because usually it is viral and will clear on its own. If you develop high fevers or shortness of breath then certainly see a doctor right away. The blood is probably just from nasal irritation due to the virus, it should clear when the viral infection is over. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water and taking a multivitamin and some extra vitamin C.
I hope you are feeling better soon,
Regards,
Dr. Robinson
not yet
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
Usually if you have sinus congestion and lots of mucus it is from a viral infection. Managing at home with nasal saline, vicks and nyquil is good and viruses usually clear in one to two weeks. If it persists for more than two weeks it may be time to see a doctor. We usually do not start people on antibiotics for sinusitis unless they have had sinus pain and congestion for more than two weeks because usually it is viral and will clear on its own. If you develop high fevers or shortness of breath then certainly see a doctor right away. The blood is probably just from nasal irritation due to the virus, it should clear when the viral infection is over. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water and taking a multivitamin and some extra vitamin C.
I hope you are feeling better soon,
Regards,
Dr. Robinson
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
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