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If you cough up phlegm that’s yellow, green, brown, black, white or red — or if you cough up mucus for two weeks or longer, schedule a visit with your healthcare provider. They can find out what’s causing you to cough up phlegm and treat any underlying conditions.
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.
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). Acute bronchitis, which often develops from a cold or other respiratory infection, is very common.
Symptoms associated with thick mucus vary but may include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatment also depends on the cause and may include simple at-home remedies, such as inhaling steam.
When you cough up phlegm, it's called sputum. If your sputum is green, yellow, or another color, it's likely a sign of illness.
Color of phlegm and what it means. The color of phlegm may help indicate the cause of a cough and excess respiratory mucus production. Phlegm may be clear, cream, white, yellow, green,...
Mucus is a clear, slippery, gel-like substance that’s part of your immune system. It lines your mucous membranes and helps trap and destroy or clear out germs and harmful particles. Mucus gets thick and sticky and might be white, yellow or green when you have an infection. It’s also called phlegm, snot or sputum. Care at Cleveland Clinic.
A yellow or greenish sputum is typical of the flu, bronchitis, sinusitis, or chest infection. Coughing up thick phlegm that is dark yellow or thick green can mean that the irritation is deep in your airways. Coughing is usually the best way to expel thick yellow or green mucus from your airways.
A person with pneumonia may have a dry cough or a cough that produces thick sputum that is yellow, green, brown, or blood-stained. This is a viral or bacterial infection that leads to the...
Increased mucus production can be a sign that your body is effectively expelling the virus or irritant. But it can also be a sign that the cough is evolving into a more severe condition, such as bronchitis. If your cough turns from dry to wet, it's best to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation.