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Why does your nose produce so much snot when you have a cold?

Stefanie Lechthaler
3.1.2025
Translation: Katherine Martin

When you have a cold, the endless stream of snot coming out of your nose is almost as aggravating as having a sore throat. But nasal mucus isn’t just an annoyance – it has an important function too.

«Something’s going around.» Chilly winter days are upon us, bringing a whole host of cold viruses along with them. These uninvited, unwanted «guests» come bearing gifts, one of which is a boatload of snot.

What happens if you have a cold?

The inflammation means it can take two to three weeks after initial infection until the swelling in your mucous membranes goes down and mucus production goes back to normal.

How to prevent the common cold

Have you caught a cold despite your best efforts to keep your mucus healthy? If so, my colleague Anne Sandner has some good tips for you.

Header image: Shutterstock

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