Sputum is a secretion originating mainly from the upper respiratory tract, which consists of:
Phlegm retained in the nasal cavity
Phlegm originating from the larynx
Phlegm in the bronchi
Phlegm in the throat (partially)
Under normal conditions, excess phlegm in the respiratory tract is removed through coughing, which leads to the expectoration of sputum. Sputum does not contain saliva from the oropharyngeal cavity; instead it consists of mucus, epithelial cells, granulocytes, and potentially pathological components such as pus or blood. A cough with phlegm may indicate various diseases, including bronchitis.
The expectoration of purulent sputum is associated with an active bacterial infection in the respiratory system. In this case, you should see your family doctor, who will recommend the use of:
Antibiotics for 7 days – aminopenicillins or macrolides are used empirically (without culture). If antibiotic therapy does not bring improvement after 3 days, you should see your doctor again. In the case of severe pneumonia or lung abscess, antibiotic therapy will be longer, and the patient may require hospitalization.
An expectorant – acting directly on the bronchial glands – a cough with phlegm, which is difficult for the patient to expectorate, is an indication for such treatment. Expectorants facilitate clearing the respiratory tract from retained secretions as the phlegm becomes more fluid and its viscosity decreases. Concomitant tapping of the patient may also be beneficial.
In addition, rest, cessation of smoking, and drinking plenty of fluids are recommended (hydration also reduces the viscosity of phlegm retained in the bronchi).
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