1 = clear sputum, 2 = sputum containing some mucus, 3 = mucus, 4 = mucopurulent sputum, 5 = purulent sputum. c Night-time awakenings evaluated on a 5-point scale: 0 = none, 1 = minimal, 2 ...

Chronic cough is a common but often misdiagnosed symptom, requiring thorough evaluation for underlying respiratory or systemic issues.

Influenza/RSV: Often present with a more abrupt onset. Influenza tends to show high fever, more prominent rhinorrhea, productive cough (characterised by purulent sputum in bacterial infections ...

It is noteworthy that no purulent complications developed in either group of cases after penicillin treatment was started. There were 2 cases, however, in which empyema was already present before ...

Chronic productive cough with purulent sputum is always reason for concern in children and is not common as a symptom of asthma. More or less specific diagnoses in children include cystic fibrosis, ...

Patients with COPD have increased airway mucus secretion and increased airflow obstruction due to airway infection or non-infectious factors, manifested as increased dyspnoea, increased sputum volume ...

Phlegm, also known as sputum, is the thick, sticky mucus your lungs and windpipe make. This acts as a defensive barrier to protect them. Its main ingredients are mucins – large, sugar-coated ...

The case for spitting. Some people feel better if they spit out phlegm, especially if the phlegm is thick, sticky or irritates the throat. Spitting also lets you see what's coming up.

If phlegm contains blood, for example, it is important to see a doctor to exclude a more serious underlying illness, such as tuberculosis or cancer. If you do spit out, do so into a tissue and ...

But for most healthy people, there’s no need to force a cough or spit out phlegm. Swallowing phlegm is completely safe. And in young children, it’s the only feasible option.

Mucus plays an important role in the function of the body, from preventing disease to aiding digestion. The Week. US Edition. SUBSCRIBE & SAVE. Less than $3 per week.