What causes bloody mucus when blowing the nose?

Apr 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, bloody nasal discharge may be caused by factors such as dry air, spicy diet, heatiness, rhinitis, or sinusitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In daily life, it is advisable to drink plenty of warm water, consume fresh vegetables and fruits such as apples, cucumbers, and tomatoes in moderation, and maintain adequate sleep.

Blood in nasal discharge is generally caused by factors such as dry air, consumption of spicy foods, internal heat ("shang huo"), rhinitis, or sinusitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Dry Air: Dry conditions can reduce moisture in the nasal mucosa, making it fragile and more prone to bleeding and runny nose when irritated. It is advised to maintain indoor humidity, drink plenty of water, and avoid prolonged exposure to dry environments.

2. Spicy Diet: Spicy foods may irritate the nasal mucosa, causing congestion and swelling, which makes capillaries more likely to rupture and lead to the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended to reduce intake of spicy foods and consume more mild, moisturizing foods such as pears and white fungus (silver ear), which may help alleviate discomfort.

3. Internal Heat ("Shang Huo"): This condition may be related to irregular sleep patterns or excessive emotional fluctuations. When experiencing "internal heat," capillaries may dilate and rupture, leading to bleeding. Additionally, "shang huo" may cause dryness and damage to the nasal mucosa, resulting in blood-tinged nasal discharge. Patients are advised to follow medical advice and use medications such as Tianwang Buxin Dan, Niuhuang Qingfei Pian, or Yangyin Qingfei Wan for treatment.

4. Rhinitis: This is usually triggered by allergens or environmental pollution. After onset, the nasal mucosa may become congested and swollen due to inflammatory stimulation. When inflammatory factors affect capillaries, they may cause symptoms such as runny nose and bloody nasal discharge. Patients should use medications such as Biyan Pian, Biyuan Tongqiao Granules, or Qianbai Biyan Pian under medical supervision to improve symptoms.

5. Sinusitis: This condition is often associated with allergic reactions or structural abnormalities in the nasal cavity. Localized inflammation may continuously irritate blood vessels in the nasal passages, causing them to rupture and bleed, accompanied by nasal discharge. Patients should strictly follow medical advice and use medications such as cefalexin dry suspension, clindamycin hydrochloride tablets, or azithromycin capsules to relieve symptoms.

In daily life, it is recommended to drink plenty of warm water and consume moderate amounts of fresh vegetables such as apples, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Maintaining adequate sleep is also beneficial for recovery.