![]() A common reason for this type of phlegm is a bacterial pneumonia, but others include simple bacterial chest infections, cystic fibrosis, infective exacerbations of COPD, and abscesses in the lung. If your phlegm is brownish or ‘rusty’ in appearance this may reflect old blood in the phlegm. Common conditions causing this type of phlegm include sinus infections, bronchitis, pneumonia and cystic fibrosis. ![]() The longer and more severe any infection is, the greater the chance of the mucus becoming thicker and more dark green in colour. Green or yellow mucus can be a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, with the colour arising from white blood cells in the body. Typical causes include allergic rhinitis and upper airway viral infections such as a cold or viral bronchitis and clear phlegm is generally not as thick or sticky as other types of phlegm. This is the most common colour of phlegm and is usually triggered by an irritant, an allergy or a simple viral infection. We look at what the various colours of phlegm might mean: Many people believe that having green or yellow mucus running from the nose means an infection is present whereas it is often a sign of simple dehydration or a harmless viral infection. When phlegm is coughed up it is called sputum.ĪSIFE Getty Images What do different phlegm colours mean?Īlthough research does suggest that the colour of phlegm is not a good indicator of significant infection in people with acute coughs who are feeling well, coughing up coloured phlegm might suggest a bacterial infection and may warrant advice from a health professional. An excess of mucus can also be caused by smoking, allergies, infection, any irritation of the nasal or throat passages and chronic lung diseases. Sometimes also called ‘mucus’ or ‘snot’, phlegm is the usually clear and slightly viscous liquid that is made by the cells lining the nose, throat, upper airways and lungs, and over one litre can be produced every day.Įveryone requires mucus to be made each day to help maintain a healthy body, but it is not normal to notice much phlegm unless you have a problem such as a cold or a chest or sinus infection. It also helps to trap particles and germs to keep you healthy.ĭr Roger Henderson looks at what the different phlegm colours means, when this can be a sign of illness, and shares 20 experts tips on clearing mucus: What is phlegm? Phlegm is the name given to the type of mucus that forms in the lungs and upper airways and normally helps to form a protective lining. But while a steady stream of snot can be incredibly annoying, it actually plays an important role in your recovery. Patient education: Acute sinusitis (sinus infection).Plagued by phlegm? Snot can get everywhere, so if you're struggling with a cold or allergies and producing a lot of mucus you might be starting to lose hope. ![]() Antibiotic prescribing and use in doctor's offices: Sinus infection (sinusitis). Colds and the fluĬenters for Disease Control and Prevention. doi:10.1172/jci.insight.152629Īmerican Academy of Family Physicians. Biochemical, biophysical, and immunological characterization of respiratory secretions in severe SARS-CoV-2 infections. Kratochvil MJ, Kaber G, Demirdjian S, et al. ![]() ![]() Antibiotic resistance.Ĭenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Antibiotics for the common cold and acute purulent rhinitis. Patient education: Nonallergic rhinitis (runny or stuffy nose).Īsthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Yuck! My snot is green: A look at what your mucus says about your health. ![]()
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