Coughing up brown phlegm: Causes, symptoms and when to see a GP 

What does it mean when you cough up brown phlegm?

Are there tests to diagnose the cause of brown mucous/phlegm?

Chest X-ray or CT scan:

Sputum culture:

Bronchoscopy:

Blood tests:

What causes a cough with brown mucous?

Potential causes of brown mucous

• Smoking and environmental toxins: Breathing in smoke, dust, or pollutants can lead to brown or discoloured mucous due to trapped particles. 
• Chronic bronchitis: A form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis results in a persistent cough, increased mucous production, and inflammation of the airways. 
• Pneumonia: This lung infection, which can be bacterial or viral, may result in brown, green, or yellow phlegm, along with fever, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. 
• Lung abscess: A serious infection that creates pus-filled cavities in the lungs, typically leading to foul-smelling brown mucous and ongoing coughing. 
• Cystic fibrosis: CF can cause thick mucous production, often yellow or green, but in some cases, bacterial infections may cause brown-tinged phlegm.
• Fungal infections: The inhalation of fungi, like Aspergillus, can result in brown mucous in individuals with compromised immune systems or existing lung diseases. 
• Old blood in mucous: Brown mucous could signify dried blood resulting from irritation in the respiratory tract caused by excessive coughing or a previous lung infection. 

Symptoms that may accompany brown mucous:

• Ongoing or intensifying cough   
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing   
• Pain or tightness in the chest   
• Fever and chills (indicating a possible infection)   
• Exhaustion or lack of energy   
• Thick or foul-smelling mucous   
• Unanticipated weight loss (in chronic illnesses)   

Home remedies

1. Keep hydrated: Consuming enough water helps to thin mucous, making it simpler to expel. Warm beverages such as herbal teas, broths, or warm lemon water can also provide relief to the throat.
2. Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or enjoying a warm shower can aid in loosening mucous and reducing congestion. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint may amplify the benefits.
3. Gargle with salt water: Gargling with warm salt water can alleviate throat irritation, clear mucous accumulation, and combat infections. Combine a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle multiple times a day.
4. Use honey and ginger: Honey possesses antibacterial and soothing qualities, while ginger acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. Mixing a teaspoon of honey with fresh ginger juice or warm water can help alleviate coughing and loosen mucous.
5. Avoid smoking and irritants: Steer clear of cigarette smoke, dust, harsh chemicals, and pollutants, as they can exacerbate symptoms and cause additional lung irritation.
6. Use a humidifier: Maintaining moisture in the air with a humidifier can prevent mucous from becoming dense and difficult to expel from the lungs.
7. Elevate your head while sleeping: Sleeping with your head elevated slightly helps stop mucous from accumulating in the throat and airways, leading to less coughing at night.
8. Get plenty of rest: Giving your body time to rest and recover bolsters the immune system and enables a more effective response to infections.

What other colours of mucous mean

• Clear: Generally, a normal and healthy condition is indicated, but an excess of clear mucous may suggest allergies, irritants, or a mild viral infection. 
• White: Commonly observed during colds or when experiencing congestion, indicating potential airway inflammation or slight dehydration.   
• Yellow: Shows the immune system is in action against an infection, such as a cold or sinusitis.   
• Green: This can indicate a bacterial infection or a prolonged viral sickness; it’s advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 10 days.   
• Red or pink: Blood may be present, possibly resulting from nasal irritation, persistent coughing, or a more serious respiratory issue. 

When to contact a doctor

Speak to an online doctor

• Online doctor appointment: Speak to an Australian GP or an after-hours GP for immediate advice and treatment options via telehealth Australia. 
• Multi-Day and same day medical certificate online: Request medical certificates for single or multiple days, perfect for work, school, or carer responsibilities. 
• Prescriptions online: Receive escripts for medications sent directly to your local pharmacy or medicines delivered to your door. 
• Online referrals: Get specialist referrals or referrals for pathology or radiology without the hassle of waiting for a clinic appointment.