What are they, what types are there, what their colors mean and how to combat them

All around us one or more people are suffering the ravages of disaster Respiratory Diseases. Therefore, health authorities have made it mandatory to wear masks in health centers and hospitals (dentists also recommend their use in clinics) to prevent the spread of cases.

Although when faced with the flu or the common cold, we all think of turning to those people who call it the flu or the common cold. flu medicine.

The ‘triad’ continues to spread in Spain: how do I know if I have flu, common cold or COVID-19? Eduardo Parra – Europa Press

These drugs can relieve the most bothersome symptoms of respiratory viruses without causing harm take care of our diet Full recovery doesn’t happen anytime soon (never before a week).

What is phlegm? Why does phlegm occur?

phlegm is a type of mucus produced in the lungs and airways.

Health centers resume wearing masks due to influenza epidemic Rodrigo Jimenez

Even though they feel very uncomfortable during the flu or catarrhal disease, Phlegm is protectiveas he explained to us Dr. Mario Bárcena Camanomember of the Respiratory Pathology Group of the Spanish Association of General Practitioners and Family Physicians.

“Mucus also contains protective substances such as immunoglobulin A and enzymes such as lysozyme. (protein that protects against bacteria and infections) helps eliminate bacteria. ”

• “A similar situation occurs in the upper respiratory tract (nasal passages, sinuses), and commonly we refer to it as overproduction of mucus, whereas its origin in the lungs is called phlegm.”

An effective cough is our body’s way of getting rid of excess mucus. As we mentioned, this happens with respiratory infections like colds, flu, or bronchitis. Although it can also occur over time in smokers, allergies, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Type of phlegm

• Transparent sputum.This is the usual color” and comes with Egg white-like texture“. If you have a cold or allergies, they will appear white.
• Yellow, brown or green phlegm.Is a Almost clear sign that infection is present. “Changes in mucus color and quantity are observed in both viral and bacterial infections; therefore, Green phlegm does not mean antibiotics are needed”, explains Dr. Bárcena Caamaño. If, in addition to green phlegm, you experience fever, discomfort, or pain on one side, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
• red phlegm. This may be due to pharyngeal irritation causing the phlegm to contain blood.However, it is a Common symptoms of illnesses such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or lung cancer.
• black phlegm.They are commonly found in high pollution event atmosphere.

Mucus is one of the symptoms of the common cold World Health Organization/Harold Ruiz – Archives

What to do if there is a lot of phlegm

Experts clarify that “no special diet is required”, but it is known that dieting is recommended. healthy balanced diet.

However, it is very important to Increase fluid intake so that “sputum becomes thinner and can be passed better”.

Not just water, It can also be made with fruits, juices, broths and infusions such as thyme, ginger, licorice or mint.. However, doctors noted, “There is no evidence of its effectiveness.”

• “However, Honey does seem to show some benefits It can be added to hot infusions, such as lemon. ”

Foods and drinks to avoid

Foods not explicitly prohibited Catarrhal or flu process. Overeating, fatty foods and carbonated drinks should be avoided.

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Despite hearing that drinking milk increases mucus production, Dr. Bárcena Caamaño denies this. “In healthy people There is no evidence to recommend avoiding dairy products during acute processes leading to increased sputum production.“.

Other tips for getting rid of snot

• The home environment is humid to promote excretion.

• Avoid bad habits: no smoking.

• Do not use antibiotics as they are not effective against respiratory viruses.

• Proper ventilation.
• Effective cough relief: Take a deep breath, pause briefly, and cough hard for two or three times.

• use a humidifier Or steam room.