Is yellow, sticky nasal discharge with blood a sign of nasopharyngeal carcinoma?
Disease description:
My uncle has recently experienced yellow, viscous nasal discharge with blood. My cousin suggested it might be nasopharyngeal carcinoma. I would like to consult whether yellow, viscous, blood-tinged nasal discharge indicates nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
Yellow, thick, and blood-tinged nasal discharge is generally not indicative of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. It may result from sinusitis caused by bacterial infection within the sinuses; chronic inflammatory stimulation of the nasal cavity can lead to congestion and edema, thereby producing yellow, thick, blood-tinged nasal discharge. Alternatively, it may be due to atrophic rhinitis, which is often accompanied by symptoms such as nasal dryness, nasal itching, and nasal obstruction. Patients are advised to maintain local nasal hygiene and ensure that their living environment has fresh, clean air.
