Cough is a common problem people suffer from, which gets cured by minor medicine and care. But many-a-times, people also experience phlegm during coughing. In many instances, they may also cough with green phlegm, which develops anxiety in them. To know why this happens, we spoke to Dr Venkatesh Billakanti (BV Rao), Consultant Physician (Internal Medicine), Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.
What is Phlegm?
"The respiratory system, specifically the cells that line the airways in the lungs and throat, produces phlegm, which is a form of mucus. It is a gooey, gel-like substance that aids in defending the respiratory system against contaminants, viruses, and bacteria," said Dr Billakanti.
He added that the body uses phlegm for a number of crucial purposes. "It assists in capturing and eliminating bacteria and dangerous elements from the respiratory system, preventing them from entering the lungs and causing infection or inflammation. Additionally, it aids in lubricating and moistening the airways, which facilitates breathing," he explained.
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"The body may produce more phlegm when battling an infection or respiratory ailment, which can cause coughing and a sense of chest congestion," said Dr Billakanti. He added that this is a normal reaction that aids in clearing the airways and ejecting extra mucus.
"The respiratory system naturally produces phlegm to defend itself from hazardous substances, but too much phlegm production can be uncomfortable and make breathing difficult," stated Dr Billakanti.
Why there's Green Phlegm in Cough?
Dr Billakanti said that your body may be fighting an illness if you cough up green phlegm. "Myeloperoxidase, a protein that is secreted by white blood cells (neutrophils) as part of the immunological response to an infection, is what gives the substance its green hue," he explained.
"Additionally, its colour may range from yellow to green to clear, and its constituents include dead cells, cellular debris, and microbes in addition to water and glycoproteins," said the doctor.
What Does Green Phlegm in Cough Mean?
"Phlegm that is green is frequently indicative of a bacterial infection, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. But it can also be brought on by a viral infection, particularly in the early phases of the sickness," suggested Dr Billakanti.
"Green phlegm may also be accompanied by cough, chest congestion, fever, exhaustion, and breathing difficulties," he added. A productive cough, characterised by the expulsion of phlegm or mucus, can be indicative of conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or the flu, according to the American Lung Association.
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"It is crucial to consult a doctor if you have these symptoms in order to identify the root of the illness cause and obtain the proper care," recommended the doctor.
Treatment of Phlegm
According to Dr Billakanti, medications can be used to treat this problem. "A drug, known as an expectorant, can be used, which aids in the liquefaction and elimination of mucus or phlegm from the respiratory tract," he added.
"Phlegm is thinned by expectorants, which makes it easier to cough up and eliminate from the body," he explained. "They can be found in Over-The-Counter (OTC) and may be useful in the treatment of colds, bronchitis, and pneumonia," he suggested. "However, before using any drug to address respiratory symptoms, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider," he said.
[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment as per your health needs.]
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