Why does a child have yellow nasal discharge after a common cold, and what should be done?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, yellow nasal discharge in children after a cold may be caused by increased nasal secretions, dry air, otitis media, sinusitis, nasal polyps, or other factors. Treatment may include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. It is advisable to keep indoor air moist and ensure regular ventilation. Personal hygiene should be maintained, including frequent handwashing, and exposure to allergens should be avoided.
Generally, yellow nasal discharge in children after a common cold may be caused by increased nasal secretions, dry air, otitis media, sinusitis, nasal polyps, and other factors. Treatment options include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Increased nasal secretions
When children have a cold, nasal mucosa becomes irritated, causing the moisture in nasal secretions to gradually evaporate. The mucus becomes thick and mixes with impurities such as dust and bacteria from the air, turning yellow. It is important to maintain indoor air humidity, and a humidifier can be used. Encourage children to drink more water, which helps thin the mucus.
2. Dry air
In dry environments with low humidity, moisture from nasal mucosa evaporates quickly, causing secretions to thicken and form yellow crusts that may flake off and result in yellow nasal discharge. During dry seasons, a humidifier can be used to increase air humidity. Encourage children to eat more fruits and vegetables rich in water content, and discourage bad habits such as nose picking.
3. Otitis media (middle ear infection)
Following a cold, bacteria may enter the middle ear through the Eustachian tube, causing otitis media, which can lead to increased secretions and the symptoms mentioned above. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as ear pain and hearing loss. Children may take medications such as Cefradine Capsules, Ofloxacin Ear Drops, and Azithromycin Granules as directed by a physician.
4. Sinusitis
Inflammation of the nasal sinus mucosa may occur due to infection, allergies, or other causes. Inflammatory stimulation leads to increased, thick, yellow secretions. Symptoms may also include headache and nasal congestion. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Bi Yan Tong Qiao Granules, Xiang Ju Capsules, and Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray can be used for treatment.
5. Nasal polyps
Long-term inflammation irritates the nasal mucosa, leading to the formation of nasal polyps. These polyps obstruct normal nasal breathing and cause secretions to accumulate, turning yellow. Children may also experience symptoms such as nasal congestion and reduced sense of smell. Under a doctor's recommendation, medications such as Bi Yan Shu Oral Liquid, Cang Er Zi Rhinitis Capsules, and Eucalyptol-Pinene Enteric-coated Soft Capsules can be used for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to maintain humid indoor air and regular ventilation. Personal hygiene should be emphasized, including frequent handwashing, and exposure to allergens should be avoided.
