Phlegm, or sputum, serves as a window into your respiratory health. Its colour can offer crucial clues about potential health conditions and help guide whether medical intervention is needed.
Here’s what different colours of phlegm might indicate, with expert insights from Dr Vikas Mittal, Director of Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi.
Clear Phlegm: Normal or Persistent Irritation
Clear phlegm is typically a sign of a healthy respiratory tract and is composed chiefly of water, salts, and proteins. However, if accompanied by a cough lasting over two weeks, it may signal irritation or mild infection. Prolonged symptoms require a doctor’s evaluation.
White or Gray Phlegm: Irritants or Mucus Blockage
White or gray sputum may result from inhaling pollutants or allergens like dust. It can also indicate mucus build-up in the airways. According to Dr Mittal, persistent or worsening symptoms may suggest chronic conditions like sinusitis or bronchitis, necessitating a medical consultation.
Seeking medical attention is crucial, Dr Mittal advised. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Yellow Phlegm: Inflammation or Early Infection
Yellow colour indicates the presence of pus or immune cells. While this is often a sign of infection, it may not always mean a severe condition. Dr Mittal warned that a healthcare provider should be consulted if yellow phlegm persists beyond two weeks or worsens.
Green Phlegm: Bacterial Infection
Green sputum often points to a bacterial infection, such as one caused by Pseudomonas bacteria. This condition is more concerning, especially when accompanied by fever, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms. Seeking medical attention is crucial.
Pink Phlegm: Possible Pulmonary Edema
Pink sputum signals that blood is mixing with secretions, a hallmark of pulmonary edema, often stemming from heart failure. Dr Mittal said immediate medical care is necessary to address this potentially life-threatening issue.
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Red Phlegm: Blood and Serious Concerns
Red sputum is an unmistakable sign of blood in your spit, which could indicate lung infections, injuries, or even cancer, noted Dr Mittal. This symptom demands urgent evaluation to identify and address the underlying cause.
Brown Phlegm: Severe Lung Damage
Dr Mittal said brown-coloured sputum may indicate the presence of old blood, dead tissue, or chronic lung damage from conditions like severe infections or environmental exposure to harmful substances. Prompt medical evaluation is vital.
Changes in the colour of phlegm are not to be ignored. While some may indicate minor issues, others can signify serious health concerns. Persistent or worsening symptoms, especially with green, pink, red, or brown phlegm, warrant a visit to a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
