Mucus, medically known as sputum or phlegm, is a secretion produced in the lungs during infection, irritation or inflammation. Mucus keeps the nasal passages and throat lubricated. Sometimes, pollen, foreign particles or even bacteria get trapped in the mucus. People typically cough up mucus to get rid of these irritants, which may cause further bodily destruction. There are a few diseases associated with mucus production.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a potentially fatal and inherited disorder that can seriously damage the lungs. According to the Mayo Clinic, cystic fibrosis can present in newborns, children and young adults. In infants, its manifestations include trouble growing, greasy stools and numerous respiratory tract infections. In children and younger adults, symptoms of cystic fibrosis include a thick sputum, a cough, wheezing, a salty-taste to the skin, bowel obstruction, sinus infections, frequent bouts of pneumonia and clubbing (thickening) of the toes and fingertips. Cystic fibrosis can also lead to nasal growths (polyps) and cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), says the Mayo Clinic.
Treatment for cystic fibrosis includes managing lung infections with antibiotics and using certain drugs like dornase alpha to thin the mucus. Patients can use bronchodilators such as albuterol to dilate the airways, and a chest clapper device, also known as a mechanical percussor, to break up the mucus in the lungs, says the Mayo Clinic. Unfortunately, cystic fibrosis may lead to malnutrition, as the body cannot absorb nutrients effectively. A high-calorie diet, oral pancreatic enzymes and fat-soluble vitamins are all treatments to promote weight gain. In severe cases, a lung transplant may be necessary.
Chronic Bronchitis
The University of Virginia Health System says that chronic bronchitis is a crippling disease that results in inflammation of the bronchi (airways). Chronic bronchitis occurs when coughing and mucus production occur for, at minimum, three months a year for two consecutive years. Its other symptoms include numerous respiratory infections, trouble breathing, blue skin or lips and swelling of the feet or heart failure.
Treatment for chronic bronchitis involves taking oral antibiotics to reduce any infections. Other treatments include inhalation bronchodilator therapy to open the airways and oxygen therapy to aid in breathing. Sometimes, surgeons will remove part of the damaged lung or suggest lung transplantation surgery.
Asthma
MedlinePlus says that asthma is an inflammatory disease characterized by such symptoms as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and coughing. It can also lead to a cough that is productive or not productive of sputum. Asthma's severe manifestations include blueness of the face or lips, trouble breathing, anxiety, sweating and a rapid pulse.
MedlinePlus says that dust, pet dander, smoke, pollen, mold, chemicals and exercise are just a few things that can trigger asthma.
Asthma treatments include inhaled corticosteroid medications to reduce inflammation and long-acting bronchodilators to widen the airway and help in breathing. Other medications include cromolyn sodium, methylprednisolone and short-acting bronchodilators, says MedlinePlus.
