I'm really concerned about something and would appreciate your advice. I quit smoking two years ago, which felt great, but now I'm dealing with something else. Most of the time, my nose feels really congested. Occasionally, when I sniff and spit, I notice some blood in the mucus, even though I don't have a cough. Sometimes, when I'm trying to clear my nose manually, I also notice blood in the mucus. Is this normal, or could it be something serious that I should get checked out?

Dr Dr Khaleel Ur Rahim

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 1+ Yrs

Consult Now

It sounds like you may be experiencing some nasal bleeding. The medical term for this is epistaxis. Nasal bleeding can be caused by various factors such as dry air, allergies, sinus infections, or nasal trauma. Since you have mentioned blood in your mucus without coughing, it is likely coming from your nasal passages. To help with the nasal bleeding and congestion, you can try using a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages moist. You can also apply a small amount of petroleum jelly inside your nostrils to prevent dryness. Avoid picking or blowing your nose too hard, as this can further irritate the nasal passages and lead to more bleeding. If the bleeding persists or if you have recurrent episodes of nasal bleeding, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist for further evaluation and management. In the meantime, you can take a nasal decongestant like Oxymetazoline spray (e.g., Afrin) for temporary relief of nasal congestion. Follow the instructions on the package for proper dosage and duration of use. Remember to stay hydrated and avoid irritants like smoke or strong odors that can worsen nasal symptoms. If the bleeding becomes severe or if you experience other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Answered 04/07/2025