What illness does coughing up phlegm indicate?
Sep 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Coughing with phlegm may be a symptom of diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, acute tracheobronchitis, or tuberculosis. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. COPD is commonly seen in elderly individuals with a long history of smoking and typically presents as chronic cough, sputum production, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. Patients can use medications under the guidance of a physician.
Coughing with phlegm is generally a symptom of conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, acute tracheobronchitis, or tuberculosis. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
This condition commonly occurs in elderly individuals with a long history of smoking and is typically characterized by chronic cough, sputum production, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as salbutamol aerosol or terbutaline sulfate solution for nebulization.
2. Pneumonia
Often caused by bacterial or viral infections, common symptoms include cough and sputum production. Treatment under medical guidance may involve medications such as sodium penicillin for injection or ceftriaxone sodium for injection.
3. Chronic Bronchitis
This is a chronic nonspecific inflammation of the tracheal and bronchial mucosa and surrounding tissues, primarily presenting with cough and sputum production. As directed by a physician, medications such as dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablets or compound methoxyphenamine capsules may be used.
4. Acute Tracheobronchitis
This is an acute inflammatory condition of the tracheal and bronchial mucosa triggered by factors such as viral infection, cold air, dust, or allergens, leading to congestion and edema of the mucosa. Main symptoms include cough and sputum production, possibly accompanied by fever. Under medical supervision, patients may take ambroxol hydrochloride oral solution or salbutamol sulfate tablets.
5. Tuberculosis
Cough and sputum production lasting more than two weeks are common warning signs of pulmonary tuberculosis. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may take medications such as rifampicin capsules or isoniazid tablets.
If significant discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation at a hospital is recommended to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
