Phlegm is produced by the tissues located in our nasal passages. It is often seen as just a nuisance, but phlegm plays a very important role. Basically it acts as a protective barrier, preventing dust, germs, viruses and other particles from reaching the deeper parts of the respiratory system.
Enzymes like lysozyme and lactoferrin present in our nasal mucus also have antimicrobial properties. They break down germ cells and help limit the growth of germs. This protective role makes phlegm an important line of defense, even when we are not unwell. The continuous process of phlegm production by the tissues of our nasal passages is an example of the body’s natural defense mechanism in action.
Here’s what the different colors of your phlegm say about your health:
clean phlegm
The baseline for a healthy nose. It consists mostly of water, which combines with proteins, salts and cells to keep the nasal passages moist and form a barrier to particles. In the early days of allergies and viral infections, there may be overproduction of clear phlegm. This can also happen when your body reacts to pathogens.
white phlegm
Often a sign of airway obstruction. Inflammation of the nasal tissues slows down the flow of phlegm, causing it to thicken. This usually signals the onset of an infection, such as a cold, as your immune system begins to activate.
yellow phlegm
indicates that your immune system is actively fighting the infection. The white blood cells sent to attack the infection die and release enzymes that give the phlegm a yellow color.
resulting from an intense immune response green phlegm It happens . The green color comes from an enzyme called myeloperoxidase, which is produced by neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). This enzyme produces a specific molecule that destroys pathogens.
Red or pink color:
Pink or red color of phlegm means that blood is present in it. This often happens when the tissues of the nose become dry or damaged.
black phlegm
This is rare and may be a sign of serious problems – such as fungal infection or excessive exposure to pollutants such as black matter or cigarette smoke.