Närä

Näära is the Finnish term for mucus secretions produced by mucous membranes, most commonly in the nose, sinuses, throat, and lower airways. It is part of the body's defense system, helping to trap dust, microbes, and other particles and to convey them out of the airways through swallowing or coughing. Näära is produced by goblet cells and submucosal glands and is moved along by the cilia lining the airways.

Composition and function: Näära consists mainly of water, glycoproteins (mucins), enzymes, antibodies, salts, and cellular debris. Under normal conditions it is relatively thin and continuously renewed. Its viscosity can increase with dehydration, irritation, or inflammation, which helps trap particles but can also contribute to congestion.

Variations and clinical relevance: The appearance of näärä can reflect health status. Clear mucus is common in healthy individuals and in early stages of colds or allergies. Thicker or discolored mucus (white, yellow, or green) may indicate infection or inflammation, such as sinusitis or bronchitis. Blood-tinged mucus can occur with irritation or more significant mucosal injury and should be evaluated if persistent.

Management and when to seek care: Hydration, humidification, and saline nasal irrigation can alleviate symptoms. Treat underlying causes (viral infections, allergies, or sinusitis) and avoid irritants like tobacco smoke. Seek medical advice if näärä production is persistent, accompanied by high fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up large amounts of blood, or facial pain, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve after several weeks.