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Coughing up Mucus - What Could It Mean?

Marion Sereti

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January 19, 2022
CoughPro is not a medical product. It is a wellness app intended only for users to obtain a better understanding of their cough. It is not intended to diagnose, monitor, or treat any illness.

We at Hyfe, Inc., are a company devoted to working on tools to better understand the importance of cough. It is Hyfe’s intention in the future to seek regulatory approval for medical products that analyze cough in order that they may be used to diagnose, monitor, and facilitate better treatment of respiratory illnesses.

Coughing up mucus - What Could it mean?

Are you worried about coughing up mucus? Well, it is nothing to be afraid of, much less to let fear get the best of you. 

Coughing up mucus is the body's natural response to irritation or infection in the respiratory system. It can be a normal and healthy response to respiratory irritation, such as exposure to pollutants or allergens.

But what is mucus? Mucus is a sticky, gel-like substance produced by the lining of the respiratory tract; it helps to protect and moisturize the airways, trap and clear foreign particles, and fight infections. It is also produced in other parts of the body, including the GI tract (stomach and colon), eyes, and inner ear.

Mucus Composition

  • Water
  • Antibodies
  • Enzymes
  • Proteins 
  • Salt

It may also entrap:

  • Dead cells
  • Dust 
  • Debris

Interestingly there are reasons why mucus happens in the respiratory system. Studies1 suggest that functions of respiratory mucus include keeping the respiratory tract hydrated and serving as a barrier against the outside environment by trapping particulates, including infections.

It also has other functions such as:

  • It facilitates the movement of cilia (tiny hair-like structures) that help move the mucus and trapped particles out of the respiratory system
  • It helps flush out the irritants and reduce inflammation during occurrence of respiratory infections or allergies.

Let's dig deeper into what the color or texture of your mucus specifies. Keep in mind your doctor will go for a sputum test to conclude. 

1. Frothy White Mucus

Mucus with air bubbles or a foamy appearance is usually normal. However, if your mucus shows a slight pink or light reddish shade, it might be a sign of chronic illness such as:

So what does white mucus mean? White phlegm or opaque phlegm without much color is a symptom of allergies, asthma, and frequently, viral infections. The presence of more white blood cells trying to fight infection accounts for the color.

There are different types of white mucus, including frothy white sputum, which can also appear cloudy, and thick white mucus. White frothy or foamy mucus could be a sign of excess saliva or a respiratory infection, while cloudy white mucus is typically normal. Thick white mucus and congestion could be early signs of a sinus infection or allergies.  If you have asthma 2, having a lot of white phlegm may indicate that your airways are inflamed.

This research article states: Cough and Sputum Production Are Associated With Frequent Exacerbations and Hospitalizations in COPD Subjects.

2. Thick or Solid White Mucus

Dehydration and swollen tissues are the reason behind thick white mucus. Using a humidifier and increase in water intake aids in recovering this problem.

Secondly, thick phlegm can also represent bacterial infection of your airways. Thus, it is essential to visit your doctor to start antibiotic treatment. 

Mainly asthma, viral inflammation, and allergies can turn your sputum white. Taking anti-allergies, anti-histamines, and nasal drops can work if an allergy is an underlying root. 

3. Clear Mucus

This type of transparent or colorless mucus is typically normal and is produced in the respiratory tract to help keep it moist and to trap any foreign particles that may enter. If you're coughing up clear phlegm with bubbles or light-colored mucus, it could signify a mild infection in your respiratory system or allergies.

4. Black/Charcoal/Gray Mucus

Charcoal or gray phlegm typically appears in people who work in chemical or charcoal manufacturing factories, coal mines, and smokers. 

In addition, factory workers or coal miners who do not adhere to safety precautions and use facemasks are more prone to black phlegm.

The medical term for black sputum is melanoptysis. The appearance of black phlegm could indicate that you have inhaled a significant amount of black particles or have an infection 

Studies suggest3 that black, black-gray, or charcoal colored mucus can be caused by:

  • Fungal infection4
  • Exposure to air pollution, dust or smoking, and/or damage to the respiratory tract from these.
    • One study found that coal miners5, along with those working in construction and other industries involving exposure to airborne particles had an increased risk of developing black lung disease, which can cause coughing and the production of black phlegm. It is considered an occupational hazard. Other lung conditions caused by coal mine dust (CMDLD) include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coal workers' pneumoconiosis, silicosis, mixed dust pneumoconiosis, and  dust-related diffuse fibrosis.
  • Smoking – This can cause black mucus due to tar and other chemicals in cigarette smoke that can build up in the respiratory system and lead to inflammation and excess mucus production

Rarely, black phlegm can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as lung cancer6 or tuberculosis, if present with symptoms, such as coughing up blood, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

5. Yellow/Green Mucus

Purulent is the other name given to this type of phlegm. As it contains ‘pus’. This color appears when neutrophils (a type of white blood cells) accompany the sputum. 

Yellow mucus is typically produced when the body is fighting an infection such as cold, flu, or sinusitis. It can indicate that the body is producing white blood cells to combat the infection, which can cause the mucus to become thick and discolored.

Although phlegm of this color may indicate an illness, medications are not always necessary. Most viral infections that result in green phlegm normally go away on their own in weeks. Antibiotics do not help with viral infections like the common cold.

Oftentimes, after a few days, the phlegm turns back white7. If this doesn't happen for an extended period of time, it can be a sign of a more serious viral/bacterial infection such as:

  • Sinusitis – Also known as sinus inflammation 
  • Bronchitis – While the cough associated with this airway issue normally begins out dry, it can develop into one that produces clear or white phlegm as it progresses. If an infection is present, it may also generate green phlegm (which may move from viral to bacterial in nature)
  • Pneumonia– This disease comes in bacterial, fungal, and viral varieties, frequently developing from an earlier respiratory infection
  • Cystic fibrosis – The accumulation of mucus in the lungs is a central trait of this chronic respiratory illness. Cystic fibrosis phlegm can range in hue from light yellow to dark green.

Before using antibiotics, one should speak with their doctor. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance, which is harmful.

6. Pink or Red Mucus

Frothy pink sputum, or even red, can indicate the presence of bleeding in the respiratory system. When you cough up blood, it frequently appears bubbly or frothy and is combined with mucus or spit. It often exists in minute concentrations and might seem pink, crimson, or rust-colored.

Blood-tinged sputum8 an signify a more serious underlying condition, such as:

  • Respiratory infections – Infections of the respiratory system, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can irritate and inflame the respiratory system, causing it to bleed slightly, leading to red or pink mucus.
  • Pulmonary edema9 – A sign of pulmonary edema is foamy pink sputum and shortness of breath; blood and fluid flow into the lungs from the alveoli. Consult a doctor as quickly as possible to rule out congestive heart failure, whose frequent symptom is pulmonary edema.
  • Trauma to the respiratory system – A punctured lung or a fractured rib can cause bleeding in the respiratory system, leading to the production of red or pink mucus.
  • Lung cancer – This can cause bleeding in the respiratory system, leading to the production of red or pink mucus

You should see your doctor if you're producing phlegm that is red, pink, or bloody. It is alarming if you smoke and you are coughing up blood. Before reaching a diagnosis, your doctor may request a chest x-ray and conduct a more thorough health exam.

7. Brown Mucus

Your mucus turns brown due to persistent inflammation causing upper respiratory tract damage, which combines mucus with debris, old blood, tar that has loosened up after you've stopped smoking, or a combination of all three. Lung inflammation also causes a generalized increase in mucus production, which can result in a persistent cough.

The following medical issues are connected to the emergence of brown mucus or phlegm:

  • Black lung (coal miners' lung or pneumoconiosis in coal workers)
  • Lung fungal diseases, like aspergillosis
  • Lung cancer
  • Lung abscess10
  • Pneumococcal pneumonia11
  • Lung injury brought on by breathing in smoke from a house or fire

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between mucus, phlegm and sputum?

Airways and lungs normally secrete a liquid substance called mucus. When there is an infection or a chronic medical condition, the term phlegm may also be used to describe this substance. Whereas sputum is the precise name for the mixture of saliva and mucus that is specifically coughed up from the respiratory tract, frequently after an illness or an irritant of the membrane.

How to get mucus out of lungs?

If you are experiencing excess mucus in your lungs, there are several things you can do to help get rid of mucus and clear it out14.. Here are some techniques for reducing or eliminating excess mucus:

1. Maintaining adequate hydration might help thin mucus and make it simpler to cough up or blow out
2. Regular exercise can help improve lung function and clear mucus
3. Practice deep breathing exercises because taking deep breaths can help to expand your lungs and clear out mucus
4. Use a humidifier, increasing the humidity in the air, to thin mucus and lessen congestion
5. Nasal irrigation can help remove mucus and lessen inflammation by rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution
6. Steam inhalation from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can assist with liquifying mucus and making it simpler to expel
7. Take over-the-counter medicines – Decongestants, antihistamines, and expectorants are examples of OTC medicines that can help thin out mucus and reduce mucus production, making it easier to evacuate.
8. Avoid irritants because they can make you produce more mucus, like smoking, dust, and pollution
9. Getting adequate sleep will strengthen your immune system and lessen symptoms and mucus production

What does blood in mucus when coughing mean?

Coughing up blood, also known as hemoptysis, can be a concerning symptom that requires medical attention. As you cough, you may observe blood in your phlegm. This could be a sign of several underlying medical issues, including:

1. Infections in the respiratory system caused by bacteria or viruses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
2. Lung cancer, especially in smokers or those with a smoking history
3. Tuberculosis (TB)
4. Pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal blood clot in the lungs.

Does coughing up mucus mean you are getting better?

When you cough up mucus, your body may be trying to get rid of an infection or another respiratory disease. Although it might not always indicate that you are getting better, it is frequently an indication that your body is fending off the disease.

Does COVID-19 cause you to cough up mucus?

One of the telltale signs of COVID-19 is a cough. Often, COVID-19 will cause a dry cough, during which you might not produce any mucus. However, you can have a wet cough with mucus if you have COVID-19 at the same time as other respiratory conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

When Should I See My Healthcare Provider?

When should I be concerned about coughing up mucus? If you are experiencing excessive mucus production or have other concerns about your health, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment. Additionally, you should see your healthcare provider if you experience the following:

  • Coughing up large amounts of mucus
  • If the mucus is thick and difficult to cough up
  • Coughing up blood or pink, frothy mucus
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
  • A persistent cough that lasts for more than two weeks
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss.
  • Chronic lung conditions such as asthma, COPD, or cystic fibrosis that worsen
  • A cough that disrupts your sleep or daily activities.

It's important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, as they could be signs of a more serious underlying condition that requires treatment. Your healthcare provider can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Coughing up mucus is a common symptom associated with various respiratory illnesses. Most importantly, the mucus's color and texture help you know if you should be concerned. Whether clear, discolored, thick, or persistent may indicate an underlying infection or inflammation, making medical evaluation and treatment potentially necessary.

• U.S. adults' knowledge of various infectious diseases by age 2017 

• Top respiratory products by revenue U.S. 2016 

Reference

References
  1. Zanin, M., Baviskar, P., Webster, R., & Webby, R. (2016). The Interaction between Respiratory Pathogens and Mucus. Cell Host & Microbe, 19(2), 159–168. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2016.01.00[]
  2. Evans, C. M., Kim, K., Tuvim, M. J., & Dickey, B. F. (2009). Mucus hypersecretion in asthma: causes and effects. Current opinion in Pulmonary Medicine, 15(1), 4–11. https://doi.org/10.1097/MCP.0b013e32831da8d3[]
  3. Martínez-Girón, R., Mosquera-Martínez, J., & Martínez-Torre, S. (2013). Black-pigmented sputum. Journal of Cytology, 30(4), 274–275. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-9371.126667[]
  4. Asdaq, S. M. B., Rajan, A., Damodaran, A., Kamath, S. R., Nair, K. S., Zachariah, S. M., Sahu, R. K., Fattepur, S., Sreeharsha, N., Nair, A., Jacob, S., Albahrani, H. A., Alkhaldi, E. H., Mohzari, Y., Alrashed, A. A., & Imran, M. (2021). Identifying Mucormycosis Severity in Indian COVID-19 Patients: A Nano-Based Diagnosis and the Necessity for Critical Therapeutic Intervention. Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland), 10(11), 1308. https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10111308[]
  5. Laney, A. S., & Weissman, D. N. (2014). Respiratory diseases caused by coal mine dust. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 56 Suppl 10(0 10), S18–S22. https://doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000000260[]
  6. Farzan S. Cough and Sputum Production. In: Walker HK, Hall WD, Hurst JW, editors. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition. Boston: Butterworths; 1990. Chapter 38. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK359/[]
  7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012). Common Cold ¦ Antibiotic Use. Retrieved March 29 2023 from https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/colds.html[]
  8. Ittrich, H., Bockhorn, M., Klose, H., & Simon, M. (2017). The Diagnosis and Treatment of Hemoptysis. Deutsches Arzteblatt International, 114(21), 371–381. https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2017.0371[]
  9. Jensen JD, Vincent AL. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema. [Updated 2022 Jul 18]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430819/[]
  10. Kuhajda I, Zarogoulidis K, Tsirgogianni K, Tsavlis D, Kioumis I, Kosmidis C, Tsakiridis K, Mpakas A, Zarogoulidis P, Zissimopoulos A, Baloukas D, Kuhajda D. (2015). Lung abscess-etiology, diagnostic and treatment options. Annals of Translational Med icine. 3(13):183. doi.org/10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2015.07.08[]
  11. Mayo Clinic. (2020, June 13). Pneumonia - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 29 2023 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumonia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354204[]
  12. American Lung Association. (2021). Understanding Mucus in Your Lungs. Retrieved March 29 2023 from https://www.lung.org/blog/lungs-mucus[]
  13. American Lung Association. (2021). Understanding Mucus in Your Lungs. Retrieved March 29 2023 from https://www.lung.org/blog/lungs-mucus[]
  14. American Lung Association. (2021). Understanding Mucus in Your Lungs. Retrieved March 29 2023 from https://www.lung.org/blog/lungs-mucus[]

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