Sputum: Definition, colors, causes, and when to see a doctor
Jan 22, 2024 · Mucus in the airways, known as phlegm or sputum, helps remove dust and debris and keep the lungs clear. Sometimes, problems arise that can change the thickness, amount, or color of mucus.
Mucus: Phlegm, Causes, Colors & How To Get Rid Of It - Cleveland …
Sep 20, 2024 · Mucus is a slippery fluid that lines your respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive tracts. It acts like a shield to keep out harmful germs (pathogens) while also letting in things your body needs, like oxygen and nutrients. It also lubricates and moisturizes organs and structures in your body.
Phlegm Color Chart: What the Color of Your Phlegm Means - Healthgrades
Aug 2, 2024 · Summary. The color of your phlegm can indicate an underlying condition. For example, yellow or green phlegm can be a sign of a respiratory infection, while red or pink phlegm can indicate lung bleeding or inflammation. Phlegm is typically clear and thin.
Coughing Up Phlegm: Causes and Treatment - Cleveland Clinic
Coughing up phlegm is a symptom of infections like the flu and common cold. Phlegm is a specific type of mucus that originates in your lungs and throat. It’s slightly thicker than the mucus that’s produced in your nose and sinuses. Another name for phlegm is sputum.
Sputum: Contents, Function, Conditions, Colors - Verywell Health
Aug 1, 2023 · The quantity, texture, and color of sputum can help to diagnose lung cancer and other medical conditions that affect sputum production. This article explains what sputum is and what it looks like. It also discusses what different colors of sputum might indicate.
Sputum Culture: What Is Sputum? - Cleveland Clinic
Aug 4, 2023 · A sputum culture, or sputum test, is a test that detects bacteria, fungi or other germs in your lungs or airways. Healthcare providers often use sputum cultures to diagnose respiratory infections and diseases such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.
Green, Yellow, and Brown Phlegm: What Does it Mean? - Healthline
Jan 23, 2024 · When you cough up phlegm, it’s called sputum. You may notice different colored sputum and wonder what the colors mean. Ongoing studies are questioning the importance of the color of...
Sputum: Definition, Colors, Causes, and Conditions (2024)
Jul 6, 2024 · Sputum is a mixture of saliva and mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract, typically as a result of infection or chronic conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. It can be clear, yellow, green, or tinged with blood, and its analysis helps diagnose various respiratory diseases.
Understanding Mucus in Your Lungs - American Lung Association
Jul 14, 2021 · Mucus in the lungs is known as phlegm or sputum. It is a common symptom in chronic lung diseases such as COPD (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema), cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease or asthma.
Bronchitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Jul 31, 2024 · Overview. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes. These tubes carry air to and from your lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored. Bronchitis may start suddenly and be short term (acute) or start gradually and become long term (chronic).