Nasal mucus is created within membranes of your nose and sinus passages. Your body produces more than a liter of mucus every day, whether you’re healthy or fighting off a cold.
Most of the time, the mucus your body produces is probably something you’re so used to that you don’t even notice it.
The consistency of your mucus is a sign from your body about what’s going on inside you.
Mucus that’s runny and clear can mean that you have excess drainage coming from your nose. Mucus that’s green-tinged or yellow can mean that your sinuses have been exposed to an irritant, often an infection.
One form your mucus can take is a thick, rubbery, solid consistency. This can be a sign of anything from dry air in your home to a bacterial infection.
This article will cover the causes of thick, rubbery nasal mucus and help you know when you need to see your doctor.
What causes sticky mucus in the nose?
Typically, mucus flows freely through your sinus passages, washing out dust, pollutants, and bacteria.
Then the mucus passes down through your throat and into your stomach, where any irritants or bacteria are disposed. This is a natural process. Most people swallow mucus all day long without even realizing it.
Sometimes, your body needs to produce more mucus than normal to lubricate and cleanse your sinus system. That can mean that the mucus your body produces becomes stickier and rubbery.
This happens because the membranes in your nose run out of moisture to make your mucus watery and clear.
When your mucus is dry and sticky, mucus may begin to accumulate in the back of your throat. This is called postnasal drip. It can feel like a clog or plug in your sinuses.
Here are some common causes of sticky, thick mucus.
