The difference between phlegm colors and the meaning of each color, Phlegm is a thick mucus produced by the mucous membranes of the respiratory system to protect the lower respiratory tract from germs and foreign bodies.
Phlegm can be expelled with a cough due to increased production caused by infection or irritation in the respiratory system. There are different types of phlegm, each with its own color, as the color can indicate a health problem.
Colors of Phlegm
The colors of phlegm that accumulates in the chest vary depending on the underlying cause. It can be clear, white, green, yellow, red, or black, and each color indicates a different condition.
The treating physician will determine the cause and health problem based on the color of the phlegm. It doesn't necessarily indicate danger; it is a natural component of the respiratory system, protecting it from germs.
Clear Phlegm
Clear phlegm is considered normal in most cases. It is the natural color of phlegm produced by globulin cells to moisten the mucus and prevent germs from entering the respiratory system.
However, an increase in clear phlegm can occur as a result of foreign bodies entering the respiratory system. Excessive phlegm is produced to expel these particles.
White Phlegm
While mucus can appear white, this is normal. However, it can sometimes indicate several health problems, such as:
- Nasal congestion, which can slow down the expulsion of phlegm from the chest, causing it to accumulate and become thick.
- Visible gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes frothy white phlegm.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Viral bronchitis.
Yellow or Green Phlegm
Yellow and green phlegm indicate that the body is fighting an infection. The color results from white blood cells being attracted to the site of inflammation.
Brown Phlegm
Brown phlegm indicates the presence of old blood in the mucus and may appear some time after the expulsion of red phlegm. It may also indicate:
- Lung changes resulting from inhaling dust and coal. Bacterial bronchitis.
- Bacterial pneumonia.
- Cystic fibrosis.
Red or pink phlegm
Red or pink phlegm is caused by the presence of blood and is considered the most dangerous type of phlegm. It occurs as a result of the following diseases:
- Pneumonia (the red color indicates advanced stages of infection).
- Pulmonary embolism.
- Tuberculosis.
- Congestive heart failure.
- Lung cancer.
Black phlegm
Black phlegm is a dangerous type that can occur due to the presence of blood, coal dust, or inhaled substances that can affect lung health and function.
What is the difference between yellow and green phlegm
The difference between them is usually that green phlegm indicates a severe bacterial infection, while yellow phlegm indicates that the body is fighting an infection in general. Both occur as a result of the immune system's response, with white blood cells attacking pathogens. Phlegm often progresses from yellow to green as the infection becomes more severe.
Treatment Methods for Phlegm
Phlegm can be treated at home with methods such as drinking plenty of warm fluids, inhaling steam, avoiding irritants like smoking, gargling with salt water, humidifying the air in the home, and taking medications and saline solutions prescribed by your doctor.
Medications for Treating Phlegm
- Acetylcysteine Effervescent Tablets
- Muco SR Capsules
- Mucotec Capsules
- Cufleve Syrup
- Avipect Syrup
Tips for Getting Rid of Phlegm
Here are some tips to help get rid of phlegm:
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Use air filters to filter out dust.
- Use a humidifier to moisten the surrounding air.
- Use the saline nasal solution prescribed by your doctor.
Does the texture of phlegm indicate its severity
Yes, normal phlegm has a runny consistency. A thick or frothy consistency may indicate several conditions, such as:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Dehydration.
- Heart failure, especially if accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating.
Article summary
phlegm is a thick mucous substance produced by the mucous membranes of the respiratory system to protect it from germs and foreign bodies. It comes in various colors, which may differ depending on the underlying cause, and each color can indicate a different condition.