Coughing up white phlegm: What it means & what to do

What does it mean if you cough up white phlegm? 

What causes a cough with white mucous

1. Common cold

Symptoms

• Sore throat 
• Mild fever 
• Runny nose 
• Cough with white or clear mucous 
• Fatigue 

Treatment:

• Drink adequate fluids to keep mucous thin and easier to clear.  
• Use a nasal spray to clear nasal congestion. 
• Decongestants (eg. Pseudoephedrine) 
• Pain relief (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen) 
• Gargle with saline water for sore throat 
• Get adequate rest and use over-the-counter medications. 

2. Allergies

Symptoms:

• Runny or stuffy nose 
• Sneezing 
• Watery eyes 
• Cough with white phlegm, especially after exposure to allergens. 

Treatment:

• Avoid allergens  
• Use antihistamines to reduce allergies 
• Use a nasal spray to clear nasal passages 

3. Bronchitis

Symptoms:

• Fever 
• Fatigue 
• Sore throat 
• Persistent cough  
• Chest discomfort 
• Shortness of breath 

Treatment:

• Drink sufficient fluids 
• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist 
• Avoid smoking 

4. Asthma

Symptoms:

• Wheezing 
• Shortness of breath 
• Persistent cough 

Treatment:

• Avoid triggers such as smoke or allergens. 
• Reliever and preventer inhalers 
• Corticosteroids for moderate to severe cases 
• Monitor your asthma symptoms and follow up with your doctor for proper care. 

5. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

Symptoms:

• Heartburn 
• Trouble swallowing 
• Sour taste in the mouth 
• Worsening cough at night or after meals 

Treatment:

• Avoid large meals 
• Avoid spicy or fatty foods 
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating 
• Use antacids to neutralise stomach acid for short term relief 
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) (omeprazole, lansoprazole) or H2 Blockers (famotidine) may be recommended by a doctor

6. Dehydration

Symptoms:

• Dry mouth or throat 
• Fatigue 
• Persistent cough with thick white mucous 

Treatment:

• Drink adequate water to rehydrate and thin mucous.  
• Consume fruits and vegetables  
• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist and stop the airways from becoming more dry. 

Frothy white mucous vs. solid white mucous

• Foamy white mucous: Foamy or bubbly white mucous is frequently connected to lung issues such as pulmonary oedema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 
• Thick white mucous: Denser, thick white mucous is usually associated with infections, allergies, or inflammation. It can indicate sinus infections, viral respiratory diseases, or dehydration. When mucous becomes thicker, it may sinus congestion, making it more difficult to expel from the airways.

Home remedies

1. Stay well-hydrated: Make sure to drink sufficient water to thin out mucous, making it simpler to expel. Warm beverages like herbal teas and broths can soothe the throat and help ease congestion.
2. Utilise steam therapy: Breathing in steam from a bowl of hot water or enjoying a warm shower can assist in breaking up thick mucous and alleviate nasal or chest congestion.
3. Gargle with saline solution: Gargling with salt water can relieve the throat, lessen irritation, and aid in clearing excess mucous.
4. Employ a humidifier: Maintaining moisture in the air can stop mucous from becoming thick and facilitate easier breathing, particularly in dry conditions.
5. Steer clear of mucous-inducing foods: While some people feel that dairy thickens mucous, there is no strong scientific evidence for this. Instead, focus on hydration, warm fluids, and anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, garlic, and tumeric to help soothe irritation.
6. Raise your head while sleeping: Keeping your head elevated during sleep can help avert mucous from accumulating in the throat and decrease nighttime congestion.
7. Consider natural expectorants: Using honey, lemon, and herbal teas such as peppermint or eucalyptus can assist in dissolving mucous and soothing the airways.

What other colours of mucous mean

Transparent mucous:

White mucous:

Yellow mucous:

Green mucous:

• Clear: Normal or mild viral infection
• White: Congestion, mild infection, or dehydration
• Yellow: Fighting an infection
• Green: Possible bacterial infection
• Brown: Dust or smoke inhalation
• Red/Pink: Blood traces from irritation
• Black: Pollution or fungal infection

Brown mucous:

Red or pink mucous:

Black mucous:

When to contact a doctor

• You should consult a healthcare professional if changes in mucous persist for over 10 days or are coupled with worrisome symptoms. Most cases of white phlegm are due to viral infections and do not require antibiotics. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed by a doctor if you notice: 
• Thick mucous that is green or yellow accompanied by a fever – This can suggest a bacterial infection that may need antibiotic treatment.   
• Blood-streaked mucous that does not resolve – Ongoing red or pink mucous could indicate a more serious issue, such as an infection or lung irritation.   
• Dark mucous – This might be associated with fungal infections, smoking, or exposure to pollution and should be assessed.   
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain – These signs could indicate a serious infection or lung problem.   
• Long-lasting mucous production – If mucous accumulation continues for several weeks, a doctor can investigate possible underlying issues such as allergies, GERD, or sinusitis. 

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 delivered to your door. 
• Online referrals: Get specialist referrals or referrals for pathology or radiology without the hassle of waiting for a clinic appointment.