Treating a severe cough with phlegm is necessary, because it is a signal from the body that there is a type of bacteria or virus that causes inflammation or infection in the respiratory system, and as a natural reaction, the body tries to expel it through coughing, but its continuation for a long period affects sleep and prevents you from performing daily tasks, so you must know its causes in order to deal with it properly and intervene immediately in critical cases that require it.

What is a cough with phlegm?

It is a condition that occurs in the respiratory system and may be caused by infection with a certain virus or bacteria. It is a severe cough accompanied by mucus that blocks the throat area, constricts the chest, and causes shortness of breath. Its severity increases when sleeping or lying down. It may be a sign of infection with some serious diseases. It also causes many health complications when it continues for a long time without treatment.

What are the causes of severe cough with phlegm? 

There may be multiple causes of infection for one case, and only one cause may also suffice. Common causes of a wet cough include: 

• Infection of the upper respiratory tract with a viral infection.
• Acute bronchitis as a result of smoking.
• Pneumonia.
• Bronchial obstruction and inflammation.
• asthma.
• Cystic fibrosis, which produces thick phlegm in the lung.
• Heart failure, which leads to pulmonary edema, which causes the lungs to fill with fluid.
• Whooping cough.
• Exposure to substances that irritate the lung and respiratory system, such as cigarette smoke.

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Symptoms of severe cough with phlegm

The symptoms associated with cough with phlegm vary depending on the patient’s condition, the duration of the infection, and the cause of the cough. Common symptoms include:  

• Nasal congestion and runny nose.
• Fever and general fatigue. 
• Whistling in the chest.
• Difficulty breathing. 
• Muscle and chest pain.
• Postnasal drip.

Diagnosis of severe cough with phlegm

The continuation of a severe cough with phlegm for a long time without improvement requires that you immediately go to a specialist doctor who will ask you about the duration of the cough and the symptoms accompanying it. In order to choose the appropriate treatment for you, an accurate diagnosis must include the following:  

• Blood examination and measurement of its oxygen level.
• Perform a lung function test to check its ability to inflate.   
• X-rays of the lungs, sinuses, and chest are performed to ensure that there are no problems in the cells.
• Scanning the throat to detect infection with certain types of bacteria that cause coughing with phlegm. 

Complications of severe cough with phlegm

If severe cough with phlegm is not treated, it affects health and quality of life significantly. Its serious complications include: 

• Feeling severe pain in the abdomen and chest.
• Involuntary urine output during coughing.
• General fatigue and body lethargy.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Rib fractures.
• If it is treated with cough medicines without knowing its cause, it causes phlegm accumulation and shortness of breath. 

Treating severe cough with phlegm from the pharmacy

Cough and phlegm can be treated using medications. Although many medications can be taken without a prescription, it is preferable to consult a doctor before taking them, especially if you suffer from a certain health condition, because some medications may cause serious complications. Among the medications that the doctor may prescribe are the following:  

• Medications that dissolve phlegm, reduce its viscosity, and facilitate its expulsion. 
• Decongestants, which are available in different forms, whether pills or syrup, work to relieve swelling of the nasal passages, reduce mucus secretion, and improve breathing. 
• Drops and sprays from the pharmacy clean the nose of mucus.
• Topical ointments or oils that contain menthol, eucalyptus oil, or camphor. These products relieve chest congestion by reducing mucus. 
• Bronchodilators.
• Steroids to treat cough with phlegm resulting from asthma. 
• Diuretics to get rid of excess fluid in case of pulmonary edema.
• Allergy medications that relieve postnasal drip.
• Fever-reducing medications.

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Treating severe cough with phlegm with herbs

If the cause of cough with phlegm is not a medical condition in the respiratory system, it can be treated using herbs, with the need to consult a doctor if you are taking medications to treat other diseases, so that serious interactions do not occur. The herbs that can be used include:  

• Ginger, because it contains anti-inflammatory substances and thins mucus, but it should not be consumed in excess, so as not to cause stomach disorders.
• Peppermint, because it contains menthol, which soothes the throat and relieves congestion when you drink it or add its oil to warm water and inhale the steam rising from it.
• Thyme contains flavonoids that relax the throat muscles and relieve coughs and infections. To obtain its benefits, soak it in boiling water, then filter it, and drink it warm.
• Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-bacterial substances.

Treating severe cough with phlegm at home

Severe cough with phlegm for adults can be treated at home with natural methods if the cough is caused by a cold, cold, or a non-severe condition. This is done through the following: 

• Gargle with water and salt.
• Eat honey on an empty stomach in the morning. 
• Drink plenty of fluids. 
• Make warm compresses for the face. 
• Shower with warm water. 
• Keep the head elevated while sleeping. 
• Stay away from substances that cause respiratory irritation. 
• Eat vegetables and fruits. 
• Reduce caffeine drinks. 

Treatment of severe cough with phlegm for children

Treatment for cough with phlegm is prescribed for children based on the child’s age, his general health, the nature of the cough he suffers from, its cause, and the extent of his ability to tolerate various treatments. Therefore, his condition must be diagnosed accurately first, then treatment is prescribed, which includes taking some medications that remove congestion and relieve cough, in addition to medications that expel phlegm and suppress cough, and stay away from allergens. 

If you suffer from a severe cough with phlegm, do not hesitateBook an appointment Now in Al Mousa Health Hospital To check your respiratory system and check its functions LungUntil you get treatment for severe cough with phlegm that suits your health condition.

Frequently asked questions 

How do I know that the cough is from the lung?

If it is accompanied by difficulty breathing, chest pain, fever, pain, and general fatigue.

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When does a cough become serious?

If it lasts for a long time, up to several weeks, and is sudden and severe, and is accompanied by pain, sweating, and colored phlegm.  

What is the forbidden food for cough?

If you suffer from a cough, you should stay away from dairy products, sweets, fried and spicy foods, processed foods, and foods full of salts.