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Phlegm (/ ˈ f l ɛ m /; Ancient Greek: φλέγμα, phlégma, "inflammation", "humour caused by heat") is mucus produced by the respiratory system, excluding that produced by the throat nasal passages. It often refers to respiratory mucus expelled by coughing, otherwise known as sputum.
Having green, yellow, or thickened phlegm (sputum) does not always indicate the presence of an infection. Also, if an infection is present, the color of the phlegm (sputum) does not determine whether a virus, a bacterium or another pathogen has caused it. Simple allergies can also cause changes in the color of the mucus. [1]
From what it is to how to get rid of it, we've got you covered.
Bronchitis. Acute bronchitis, also known as a chest cold, is a short-term inflammation of the bronchi of the lungs. [4] [6] The most common symptom is a cough that may or may not produce sputum.
Phlegm can lead to congestion, coughing, and breathing problems. We spoke to medical experts on the causes, symptoms, and treatments of phlegm.
Mucus has trillions of microbes and is a first line of defense against microorganisms that cause infections, the NIH says. "Mucus is very helpful in terms of our immune system," Elliott says.
It can result in a thick exudate of mucus and white blood cells caused by the swelling of the mucous membranes in the head in response to an infection. It is a symptom usually associated with the common cold , pharyngitis , and chesty coughs , but it can also be found in patients with adenoiditis , otitis media , sinusitis or tonsillitis .
Chest congestion is usually caused by excess mucus in the airways, says Meilan King Han, M.D., M.S., professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care at the ...