causes of very thick phlegm
Coughing Up Yellow Phlegm. Infections, allergies or asthma can lead to an inflammation of respiratory tract and lead to an accumulation of inflammatory cells or leukocytes in mucus. This can cause phlegm to turn yellow. Thick yellow phlegm is a sure sign of a bacterial or viral infection. People suffering acute or chronic cases of bronchitis or bacterial pneumonia often cough up thick yellow mucus. Coughing Up Phlegm with Blood. Blood in mucus appears as red or brown spots. Bloody phlegm can be caused due to excessive smoking or high air pollution.
Phlegm (Definition) Phlegm is the thick, sticky mucus secreted by the surface of the respiratory tract during a cold or other respiratory infection. The respiratory tract includes the nose and sinuses, throat, voice box, bronchi, and lungs. Phlegm is mucus that may contain bacteria, viruses, respiratory surface cells, and inflammatory cells.
Helpful, trusted answers from doctors: Dr. Ferranti on causes of thick mucus: This sort of discharge usually suggests an infection, including gonorrhea, chlamydia or trichomonas if at risk for STD. Hormonal problems (e.g. contraception dose), miscarriage, or other problems also are possible.