Causes of persistent cough with white phlegm

Generally, there are many possible causes for persistent coughing with white phlegm, including long-term smoking, viral infections, allergic asthma, and mycoplasma infection.

1. Long-term smoking

Smoking irritates the throat mucosa and promotes phlegm production. Chronic smoking may lead to chronic pharyngitis, resulting in persistent coughing with white phlegm. It is recommended to reduce or quit smoking to promote better health.

2. Viral infection

Goblet cells in the respiratory mucosa secrete excessive mucus to trap pathogens and expel them from the body through sputum. This often triggers a mild cough reflex, producing white foamy or clear phlegm. Under medical guidance, antiviral medications such as Acyclovir capsules or Oseltamivir phosphate capsules may be used for treatment.

3. Allergic asthma

This condition typically presents with a dry, irritating cough. During an asthma attack, increased mucus secretion in the airways may even lead to mucus plug formation. Patients should follow medical advice and use inhaled medications such as budesonide inhalation powder, beclomethasone dipropionate inhalation aerosol, or salmeterol fluticasone inhalation aerosol to manage symptoms.

4. Mycoplasma infection

Coughing is usually severe, but yellow phlegm is not明显 (note: original text likely meant "not present"). After mycoplasma infection, airway reactivity increases, commonly leading to white foamy phlegm. Diagnosis is confirmed by positive mycoplasma antibodies in blood tests. A longer course of treatment is generally recommended, along with monitoring for negative IgM antibodies to assess recovery.

Therefore, if persistent coughing with white phlegm occurs, it is important to seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In daily life, maintain a light diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid spicy, greasy, cold, or stimulating foods.