Green Phlegm
Nothing is less appealing to discuss than the subject of green phlegm. However, it is important to know when to worry about the phlegm that all of us secret in our nasal passages. When phlegm is green in color, this can signify an infection in several different parts of the respiratory tract and nasal cavities.
Respiratory Tract
When to Worry
Although there is a certain amount of phlegm secreted by each individual, the clear kind is manufactured in the lungs, our throat passages and in our bronchial tubes. Yellow or green mucus or phlegm is found in the nasal passages. Coughing up green phlegm can be a sign of a serious respiratory or sinus infection. This infection can be either a bacterial one which will most likely get better with an antibiotic prescription from a physician. However, if the infection is viral in nature, only time, lots of fluids, rest and some over the counter medications will allow the individual to feel better.
Some serious warning signs include:
- A high fever
- Chills
- Green phlegm that lasts more than three days
- Swelling of the nasal passages
- Pain that does not go away
If you have any of these symptoms, you need to visit a doctor to be checked. You will more than likely need an antibiotic and/or other medication.
Nasal Cavities
How to Get Rid of Green Phlegm
While no one really likes to have green phlegm occur, it is a necessary part of our bodies. Phlegm occurs in our bodies to help get rid of the irritants in our nasal passages that accumulate there each and every day. After the immune system in the body works all of the impurities out, phlegm are expelled from the body by coughing it out of our lungs. It is not a good idea to swallow phlegm of any type, as you are re-introducing the impurities back into your body.
Individuals can aid the process along by taking some over the counter medications that break up the mucus in the throat and lungs and make it easier to get rid of. Other ways to get rid of the green phlegm is to try and drink plenty of water and other fluids, and get as much rest as possible.
To keep the occurrences of sinus infections that show green phlegm as a sign, try to use a humidifier in your bedroom when you sleep at night. A humidifier can help keep the nasal passages open and add moisture, especially in dry conditions or in the winter when the air in your home is too dry.
Another remedy that is very comforting is using hot or very warm compresses on the sinus, or across the forehead. This can greatly alleviate the pain involved in a bad sinus condition. Some individuals swear by the use of Mentholatum rub on the chest which appears to open up the nasal passages and make the chest feel better.
Whatever remedy you choose, there is bound to be something that will make you feel better while you are getting rid of the green phlegm that is plaguing your sinuses.