if I have green mucus does that mean I have a cold or infection?

Answer 1

Are you coughing a lot? Green mucus is often a symptom of bronchitis. However, it is also associated with:
sinus issues
hayfever
nasal polyps

As you can see, green mucus does not necessarily mean an infection. If you had an infection, you would also have a fever and other symptoms. If you run a fever or develop other symptoms, please see a doctor.

Otherwise, there are things you can do to improve the situation:
1. drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol due to its dehydrating effects
2. hot compresses to sinus areas
3. steam will thin the mucus (steam from hot shower, or heat pan of hot water and inhale that steam...do not get close enough to burn yourself!)
4. humidifier/vaporizer...use one with a "well" for adding medications so you can add vicks vaporub or eucalyptus
5. saline nasal spray (can buy at any drug store)

And believe it or not, chicken soup is a perfect comfort food at this time and is beneficial since it contains fluid and has steam!