Coughing Up Green Phlegm: What Does It Mean?

Have you ever found yourself hacking away, producing a thick, green phlegm instead of the usual clear or white mucous? It's something we've all encountered at least once. Let's look into green phlegm, exploring its meaning, why it happens, and how to tackle it head-on.

What is phlegm?

Think of phlegm (or sputum) as your body's unsung hero, a sticky substance produced in your respiratory tract. Its job? Keep your airways nice and clean to trap dust, germs, and other pesky irritants. Phlegm is clear or white but takes on a different colour because of various reasons.

What causes green phlegm?

A green tinge in your phlegm usually signals an infection or inflammation.

• Bacterial infections: Picture your body as a fortress under attack by bacteria, like when you have bronchitis or pneumonia. Your white blood cells rush to the scene, releasing enzymes that attack the invaders, which can paint your phlegm green.
• Viral infections: Though less common, viruses like the flu can also turn your phlegm green, especially towards the tail-end of the illness.
• Sinusitis: A sinus infection can lead to green or yellow phlegm, particularly if you're battling a stuffy nose, facial pain, and pressure.
• Chronic conditions: Long-term ailments such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis can result in persistent green phlegm.

How to treat green phlegm cough at home?

If you're feeling under the weather, you can try these home remedies to ease your discomfort:

• Keep hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to thin out the mucous, making it easier to go out. Opt for water, herbal teas, and warm soups.
• Humidify your space: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help loosen phlegm and make it easier to expel.
• Over-the-counter remedies: Consider cough suppressants, expectorants, or decongestants to alleviate symptoms but do not take these for extended periods.

When to consult a doctor?

While home remedies can offer relief, there are instances when a visit to the doctor is necessary. If your cough lingers beyond a week, you're running a fever, experiencing chest pain, struggling to breathe, or noticing blood in your phlegm, it's time to seek medical advice.

Can a telehealth doctor help with green phlegm cough?

Telehealth services make accessing medical advice much easier. A telehealth doctor can assess your symptoms, recommend personalised tips, and prescribe medications if needed, without requiring you to go to the clinic. Opt for telehealth appointment instead of travelling to the clinic when suffering with coughs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is coughing up phlegm a good thing?

Yes, it is your body's way of doing a deep cleanse. It is unpleasant but crucial for keeping your respiratory system free of bacteria. Phlegm kicks out unwanted guests such as dust and germs, so while it might seem not pleasant, it's a testament to your body's hard work in keeping you healthy.

Is coughing up green phlegm a symptom of COVID-19?

While green phlegm can be concerning, it's important to remember it can stem from various respiratory infections, not just COVID-19. Common COVID-19 symptoms include fever, persistent dry cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. If you're coughing up green phlegm alongside these symptoms, consider getting tested. But remember, green phlegm alone isn't a telltale sign of COVID-19—it could be your body fending off any number of respiratory bacteria.

Why does phlegm change colours?

Clear or white phlegm often hints at a viral infection or allergies, as your body ramps up mucous production to flush out irritants. On the flip side, green or yellow phlegm can often point to a bacterial infection. This colour shift occurs because white blood cells swarm to the infection site, releasing enzymes that tint the mucous green or yellow, an indication that your immune system is working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Is green phlegm bacterial or viral?

While green phlegm is commonly associated with bacterial infections, it can also show up in the late stages of a viral infection. During a bacterial infection, a surge of white blood cells moves to the infected area, resulting in the greenish hue. However, as a viral infection progresses, you might also spot your phlegm turning green as your body continues its immune response. Either way, green phlegm is a signal that your body is fighting against the infection.

How can you tell the difference between allergy-induced phlegm and cold-induced phlegm?

Allergy-triggered phlegm tends to be clear and runny, mirroring your body's reaction to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. This type of phlegm often comes with symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. In contrast, the common cold-related phlegm is thicker and may change to yellow or green as your body combats the infection. Colds also tend to bring on other symptoms like a sore throat, body aches, and a mild fever. So, if your phlegm is clear and your nose is running, allergies might be the culprit. If it's thicker and you're feeling rundown, a cold could be to blame.

Does coughing up green mucous mean you're recovering?

Not always. Coughing up green mucous can indicate your body is fighting against an infection, but it doesn't necessarily mean you're on the road to recovery. Sometimes, it suggests your immune system is still in overdrive, and you might need a bit more time to get better. If your symptoms continue, worsen, or you develop new ones like a high fever or chest pain, it's worth checking in with a doctor. They can give you the right diagnosis and ensure you're on track to feeling better.