Why do I cough up GREY phlegm?

Why do I cough up GREY phlegm?

For most people, white or light gray phlegm, especially when accompanied by nasal congestion, typically signals the onset of viral bronchitis. The color indicates the presence of infection-fighting white blood cells, and phlegm and nasal mucus will be thicker than usual.

Why do I cough up black stuff?

What causes black phlegm and snot? If you ever cough up black phlegm, see a doctor as soon as possible. The discoloration may be temporary, caused by exposure to smoke or dirt in the air, or it could be due to a respiratory infection. Black phlegm could also be caused by a more serious condition, such as lung cancer.

Why is phlegm black?

Seeing black phlegm may mean you have inhaled a high amount of something black, like coal dust. It may also mean you have a fungal infection that needs medical attention. Black phlegm is commonly caused by: Smoking: Smoking cigarettes, crack , or other drugs may lead to black sputum.

What causes someone to cough up black phlegm?

Causes Pollutants. Air pollution can cause black or dark mucus. Smoking or secondhand smoke. When a person breathes in smoke, pollutants and other small particles in the smoke get trapped in the mucus and phlegm. Smoke from fires. Tuberculosis. Pneumonia. Fungal infections in the lungs. Lung cancer. Other causes.

Is coughing black phlegm a sign of cancer?

Although for most coughing up mucus is part of the cold season, coloured phlegm can be a sign of something more sinister. From green and yellow to red and even black, off-hue mucus can signal everything from pneumonia, TB and, in severe cases, lung cancer .

What is causing me to cough phlegm with black spots?

Irritant causes. The following are common irritants that may cause coughing up brown or black mucus.

Infectious causes. Infections may lead to coughing up brown or black mucus,such as the following.

Other causes. Other causes that may contribute to this symptom include the following.

What are the best ways to stop spitting up phlegm?

Moisturizing the air around you can help keep mucus thin. You may have heard that steam can clear phlegm and congestion. There actually isn’t much evidence to support this idea, and it may even cause burns. Instead of steam, you can use a cool mist humidifier . You can run the humidifier safely all day long.

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