The difference between types of phlegm and which are most dangerous, Phlegm is defined as a thick, sticky mucus secreted by the mucous membranes of the lower respiratory tract to protect the lungs and respiratory system from infection and foreign bodies.
Under normal circumstances, phlegm is clear. However, in cases of infection or illness, its color may change to green, brown, or yellow due to the presence of dead cells or pus. Therefore, a doctor should be consulted if any of these colors are observed, as they may indicate underlying health problems.
Symptoms of phlegm
Normal phlegm is usually asymptomatic. Abnormal phlegm may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Fatigue.
- Runny or stuffy nose.
In some cases, phlegm can be dangerous and requires medical attention if it persists for an extended period, changes color, or is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
- Wheezing.
- Drowsiness.
What are the causes of phlegm
A person can develop phlegm as a result of viral, bacterial, or fungal infections. There are various reasons why the body produces excessive phlegm, including:
- Respiratory infections such as influenza or lung and bronchial infections.
- Bronchiectasis, which results from repeated infections that cause permanent dilation of the airways, leading to increased phlegm production.
- Asthma, which causes sensitivity in the airways, resulting in increased phlegm production.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes difficulty breathing and increases phlegm production.
- Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that causes airway obstruction.
- Smoking increases mucus buildup in the lungs, causing smokers to cough, and the phlegm may be green or yellow.
Types of Phlegm
Phlegm can be classified into several types according to its color:
- Clear phlegm.
- White phlegm.
- Green or yellow phlegm.
- Brown phlegm.
- Pink or red phlegm.
- Black phlegm.
Clear phlegm.
Clear phlegm is the normal color of phlegm. It contains water and salts and is usually produced in small amounts. Most of it goes down the throat and is then swallowed.
White phlegm
White phlegm is sometimes normal, whether it's white or gray, especially if it's present in small amounts in the respiratory system. However, white phlegm can also be caused by mucus inside the nose, which occurs in cases of nasal congestion.
Green or yellow phlegm
Green or yellow phlegm appears as a result of respiratory diseases and is caused by the presence of neutrophils, which are characterized by their green color.
Brown phlegm
Brown phlegm usually appears in smokers and can also be caused by the presence of old blood in the phlegm or by problems in the lungs and bronchi. Therefore, brown phlegm is considered a serious type of phlegm.
Pink or Red Phlegm
Pink or red phlegm appears due to the presence of red blood cells in the phlegm. This is caused by a problem with the tiny blood vessels in the respiratory system and is considered a serious type of phlegm that may indicate lung disease.
Black Phlegm
Black phlegm is considered serious. Its color indicates the presence of old blood in the phlegm and can be caused by the presence of charcoal or inhaled substances, which can affect lung health and function.
Medications to Expel and Dissolve Phlegm
- Bromhexine Syrup
- Bronchopro Syrup
- Muco SR Capsules
- Ivypront Syrup
- Mucopect Syrup
- Mucosolvan Syrup
- Pro Efu Syrup
What are the most dangerous types of phlegm
The most dangerous type of phlegm is yellow or green phlegm, as this indicates a bacterial infection in the body, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
Brown or red phlegm is also considered dangerous because it indicates the presence of blood in the phlegm due to chronic respiratory illnesses. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor.
Article Summary
Phlegm is defined as a thick, sticky mucus secreted by the mucous membranes of the lower respiratory tract. It is produced to protect the lungs and respiratory system from infection and foreign bodies.
There are several types of phlegm, which can be distinguished by their color. Normally, phlegm is clear, but it may change color to green, brown, yellow, or red in cases of infection or other illnesses. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor.