Phlegm

Phlegm refers to the thick, sticky mucus secreted by the respiratory passages, especially during a cold or other respiratory infection. It's produced to trap and remove irritants like dust, allergens, and pathogens. The color and consistency of phlegm can offer clues about the underlying condition. While often a symptom of illness, phlegm is a natural bodily fluid with an important protective role in the respiratory system. Its presence, in increased amounts, can often lead to coughing as the body tries to expel it.

Phlegm meaning with examples

• After catching the flu, Sarah found herself constantly coughing, trying to clear the thick phlegm from her throat. The color of her phlegm was green, indicating a bacterial infection. She knew she needed to get some medicine. The doctor told her she needed to drink lots of water. She would cough and cough but nothing would come out. The constant coughing and phlegm buildup made her miserable.
• The smoker's cough was a result of chronic irritation and excess phlegm production. His lungs had been compromised with smoke for 20 years. Each morning, he would wake up with his throat and lungs coated with a thick layer of phlegm. He tried to cough it up. He felt like a congested fog horn. The constant coughing worried him, so he went to see his doctor.
• During her allergic reaction, Emily produced a copious amount of clear phlegm, indicative of inflammation in her airways. The phlegm made her feel itchy. She had been allergic to pets and didn't know one was in the house. Her nose was running too. She took some allergy medicine. After a few hours, the phlegm started to subside and she began to feel better.
• The doctor instructed the patient to cough up phlegm into a sterile container for lab analysis. The phlegm was needed to help determine the cause of the patient's persistent cough. The doctors wanted to test it for bacteria or viruses. The patient did as he was told. The results would help determine the best course of treatment.
• A common symptom of bronchitis is the production of excessive phlegm, which can be yellow or green. The patient had a bad case of bronchitis. The doctor gave her antibiotics. The phlegm caused a lot of discomfort. Her chest would ache. She knew she just had to take her medication.