What causes nasal congestion, coughing, and yellow phlegm?

Feb 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Nasal congestion, cough with yellow purulent sputum may be caused by bacterial or viral infections, or chronic exposure to dust, smoke, and other substances leading to pharyngitis due to repeated irritation of the respiratory tract. It could also indicate acute bronchitis resulting from bronchial damage caused by bacterial infection, immune impairment, allergic factors, etc. Additionally, it might be rhinitis triggered by viral infection, exposure to allergens, or genetic factors.

Nasal congestion with cough and yellow, thick phlegm usually refers to nasal obstruction and cough accompanied by yellow purulent sputum. This may be caused by pharyngitis, acute bronchitis, rhinitis, or other conditions.

1. Pharyngitis: This may result from bacterial or viral infections, or long-term exposure to dust, smoke, and other substances that repeatedly irritate the respiratory tract, leading to pharyngitis.

2. Acute bronchitis: This may be caused by bacterial infection, immune system damage, allergic factors, or other reasons that lead to damage of the bronchial tubes, resulting in acute bronchitis.

3. Rhinitis: This may occur due to viral infection, exposure to allergens, or genetic factors. Inflammation of the nasal mucosa leads to congestion, swelling, and increased inflammatory secretions.

In addition, it could also be caused by acute pneumonia. It is recommended to seek treatment targeting the underlying cause.