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Cough with Green Phlegm
Coughing up green phlegm
(25 Jun 2010)
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Phlegm refers to the thick, stringy mucus produced by the mucus membranes in the respiratory tract. It is normally produced during a cold or infection of the respiratory system. Mucus is produced as a natural response of the body.
A cough with green phlegm usually occurs when an illness begins to subside. In the initial stages of an illness, yellow mucus is likely to be produced. Coughing up of colored mucus could be a cause for worry for many individuals. However, it is normal in most cases. Even then, it is advisable to consult a doctor when one detects colored phlegm and mucus.
When mucus becomes thick and congealed, it is referred to as phlegm. This is a part of the natural immune response of the body. When the body detects a foreign agent, the immune system is triggered and an attempt is made to eliminate the invader from the body. Mucus aids in this process as it is expelled from the body along with the invader. In case, the foreign substance becomes lodged within the body, the immune system continues to fight it and inflammation may occur. When a person starts coughing up green phlegm, it is a sign that the body is in the process of fighting an infection. People usually begin coughing up thick green phlegm towards the end of an illness because the good bacteria present in many parts of the body begin to increase in number. These bacteria may be present in the phlegm that is being expelled from the body and hence the color appears green. Yellow mucus is present when the immune system begins fighting against the infection. In the initial stages as the body attempts to flush out the invading substance, clear mucus is likely to be detected.
In some cases there may be blood in the mucus and phlegm. In such cases, immediate medical assistance would be necessary. Drinking plenty of fluids is beneficial for those who are coughing green phlegm. The extra fluid will loosen the mucus and make it thinner. As a result the phlegm will leave the body in a much easier manner. It is advisable to drink warm liquids such as lemon juice and water or green tea. You may also make use of a steam vaporizer as this will allow the mucus to flow out of the body more freely. You could also add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to the water before inhaling the steam.
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answered by G R on 25 Jun 2010, 12:34:37
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