What Causes Green Phlegm?

Posted on Mon, 17 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 Answered on

Wed, 2 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am spitting up green phlegm but no other symptoms. Been going on now for three weeks or so.

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Infection, Either bacterial or Viral. need work up and management.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and i understand your concern. Green sputum is a clear cut indication of infection. It could be viral but viral comes with yellow sputum most of the time.

The green color is due to your immune system which sends white blood cells called neutrophils rushing to the area. These cells contain a greenish-colored enzyme, and in large numbers they can turn the mucus the same color.

Possible differentials are bronchitis or airways infection, pneumonia etc. Get a chest X ray and talk to your doctor.They may run some labs like X rays, sputum analysis etc. You may need a round of antibiotics.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.

Regards
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar