
Sputum: Definition, colors, causes, and when to see a doctor
Jan 22, 2024 · Sputum is a type of thick mucus produced by the lungs. This article explains the types of sputum, what causes changes, and when to speak with a doctor.
Sputum: Definition, Colors, Causes, and Conditions (2026)
Mar 3, 2026 · Sputum is a mixture of saliva and mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract, typically as a result of infection or chronic conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. It …
Sputum - Wikipedia
Sputum is mucus that is coughed up from the lower airways (the trachea and bronchi). It is commonly referred to as "phlegm". In medicine, sputum samples are usually used for a naked-eye …
Mucus: Phlegm, Causes, Colors & How To Get Rid Of It
Sep 20, 2024 · It lines your mucous membranes and helps trap and destroy or clear out germs and harmful particles. Mucus gets thick and sticky and might be white, yellow or green when you have an …
Understanding Sputum and What the Different Colors Mean
Aug 22, 2025 · Sputum is a mix of cells, foreign matter, and white blood cells produced in the respiratory tract. An increased amount of sputum is often due to increased respiratory inflammation …
Mucus | American Lung Association
Feb 19, 2026 · In the lungs, mucus plays a key role in protecting your lungs and airways from harmful irritants. Sputum and phlegm are other names sometimes used to refer to the mucus in your lungs …
What Does Pneumonia Sputum Look Like: Colors Explained
Pneumonia sputum is typically thick, sticky mucus that ranges in color from yellow or green to rust-brown or even blood-tinged, depending on the type of infection. The color, consistency, and …
Sputum: a guide for people with lung conditions
This guide aims to answer questions about sputum including when and how to take a sputum test and what to do with the results. This topic can create anxiety, especially if you have been recently …
Sputum - Physiopedia
Sputum is not saliva but the thick mucus (sometimes called phlegm) which is coughed up from the lungs. The body produces mucus to keep the thin, delicate tissues of the respiratory tract moist so …
Marvels of Mucus and Phlegm - NIH News in Health
Mucus has several names. Snot, the sticky goo that pours from your nose during a cold. Or phlegm, the gunk that can clog your lungs and make you cough. You probably aren’t a fan of the stuff. But …