What causes black phlegm and how should it be managed?

In general, black phlegm may be caused by environmental pollution, long-term smoking, tuberculosis, pneumoconiosis, or anthrax. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Environmental Pollution

Living or working for prolonged periods in environments heavily polluted with dust, cooking fumes, carbon particles, or similar substances can lead to the accumulation of these pollutants in the lungs. When mixed with mucus, they form black phlegm. Improving one's work and living environment and reducing exposure to pollutants is advised.

2. Long-Term Smoking

Smokers inhale smoke containing large amounts of tar, nicotine, and other harmful substances. These substances accumulate in the lungs and mix with mucus, resulting in black phlegm. The most effective solution is to quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

3. Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a lung disease caused by infection with *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*. During the course of the disease, pulmonary blood vessels may rupture and bleed. If blood remains in the airway for an extended period, iron in hemoglobin oxidizes into ferric iron, potentially turning the sputum black. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as low-grade fever, night sweats, and coughing. Patients should follow medical advice and may be prescribed medications such as isoniazid tablets, rifampicin capsules, and ethambutol hydrochloride tablets.

4. Pneumoconiosis

Pneumoconiosis results from long-term inhalation of inorganic mineral dust. The inhaled dust accumulates in the lungs, irritating lung tissue and leading to the production of large amounts of black sputum. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications such as aminophylline tablets, salbutamol aerosol, and bromhexine hydrochloride tablets.

5. Anthrax

Anthrax is caused by infection with *Bacillus anthracis*. After entering the body, the bacteria release toxins that damage lung tissue and trigger inflammatory responses, leading to black phlegm. Symptoms may include high fever, chills, and rapid breathing. Treatment should follow medical recommendations and may include antibiotics such as doxycycline hyclate tablets, ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, and minocycline hydrochloride tablets.

In daily life, it is important to avoid polluted environments, refrain from consuming spicy or irritating foods, and engage in regular exercise to strengthen the immune system.