Between the blooming of spring flowers and the bleak autumn breeze, there is a common but annoying health problem that frequently visits our daily life - that is, rhinitis and its accompanying persistent nasal discharge. The nasal cavity, this body's air filter, when it encounters discomfort, is like a constantly running faucet, endlessly expelling snot. This situation is not only a natural response of the body to external stimuli, but also an intuitive manifestation of complex physiological processes. But why? Why does rhinitis cause a constant flow of nasal mucus that seems difficult to control?
In the body's defense system, the nasal cavity plays the role of an outpost, and its main task is to filter, warm and moisten the inhaled air. When foreign substances such as allergens, viruses, or bacteria invade the nasal passages, rhinitis is a feast of inflammation. At this point, the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity react, causing blood vessels to dilate and blood flow to increase, which can lead to congestion and edema. As a direct consequence of this feast, a large amount of snot is produced, the purpose of which is to physically remove these uninvited guests.
This process is much like the defensive battle of the castle, when the enemy (allergens, viruses, etc.) attacks, the castle (nasal cavity) cleanses and excludes the enemy by increasing the number of soldiers (snot), preventing its deep invasion from being attacked.
Usually people's perception of snot is stuck in the discomfort it brings, but from a physiological point of view, snot is an unsung hero. It contains antibodies, enzymes, and proteins that can help defend against foreign microbial attacks. When inflammation occurs, glands in the nasal mucosa increase secretion to moisten the nasal cavity and promote the excretion of foreign bodies.
This process can be likened to a well-organized cleansing operation to keep the nasal environment clean and prevent pathogens from further affecting the respiratory system.
Inflammation is the body's instinctive response to injury, and increased nasal discharge in rhinitis is essentially a protective mechanism. In this process, inflammatory cells such as neutrophils and macrophages, as well as immune factors such as cytokines and chemical factors, are activated, and they work together to fight against invading pathogens. These cells and factors not only cause the nasal mucosal glands to secrete more mucus, but also increase the vascular permeability of the mucosa, causing more fluid components to enter the nasal cavity.
This process is similar to the principle of water cannons used by fire brigades to extinguish fires, where a large amount of water (snot) is sprayed to extinguish the flames (inflammation) and prevent the fire from spreading.
The challenge for rhinitis patients is often how to effectively control the overproduction of nasal discharge。Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding known allergens and keeping indoor air fresh and moist, can reduce nasal irritation and reduce inflammation. Medications**, such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids, can be effective in reducing inflammation and controlling nasal discharge. For some refractory rhinitis, such as allergic rhinitis, immunity** may be a long-term solution to reduce the body's allergic response by gradually getting used to allergens.
This process can be likened to adjusting a complex ecosystem that aims to restore balance rather than simply removing discomfort.