Lung Cancer Cough with Sputum What to Watch For and Why

Title: Lung Cancer Cough with Sputum What to Watch For and Why

Introduction: Changes in sputum color, odor, or characteristics may signal lung cancer; seek medical attention and consider regular screenings.

Keywords: ['Health knowledge', 'Lung cancer prevention and treatment']

Most people consider 'coughing up phlegm' to be just a minor cold, but if the color, amount, or smell of the phlegm changes persistently, it could likely be a distress signal from your lungs.

What is 'coughing up phlegm'?

Coughing up phlegm refers to an excessive secretion of mucus from the airway mucosa due to irritation, which is expelled from the body through coughing. The nature, color, quantity, and odor of the phlegm can vary depending on different diseases. In healthy individuals, phlegm is typically clear or white; however, if the color changes to green, rusty, red, or has traces of blood and persists for more than 2-3 weeks, it is important to be cautious of potential underlying diseases, including lung cancer.

Why does lung cancer cause coughing up phlegm?

Tumor blockage or irritation of the bronchial mucosa.

Localized stimulation of the mass → Proliferation of goblet cells and high mucus secretion → Increased sputum production, commonly presenting as white foamy or viscous sputum.

2. Consolidated obstructive pneumonia.

A tumor obstructs the bronchus → infection in the distal lung tissue → yellow purulent sputum, foul-smelling sputum, accompanied by fever.

3. Tumor surface necrosis and bleeding.

Capillary rupture → Blood-streaked sputum, rusty-colored sputum, or bright red blood (hemoptysis).

4. Obstruction of pleural or lymphatic drainage.

Causes 'pulmonary edema-like' changes → pink frothy sputum, but relatively rare.

Three, the five 'danger signals' of cough and phlegm in lung cancer.

In any of these situations, one should seek medical attention promptly.

The relationship between different characteristics of phlegm and lung cancer.

Note: In the early stages, lung cancer may only present with 'white mucus; do not let your guard down just because there is 'no blood'.

If you notice blood in your sputum, here are the immediate actions you should take.

1) Remain calm and lie on your side to prevent choking; document the amount of bleeding (blood-tinted phlegm/fresh blood from the mouth/over 100 mL in 24 hours).

2) Seek medical attention immediately, bringing along the most recent chest X-ray or CT scan; avoid vigorous exercise and hot baths.

Do not take strong cough medications on your own to avoid blood clots blocking the airways.

6. Daily Management and Prevention Recommendations.

1) Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke: Smoking is the primary culprit behind lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

2) Kitchen ventilation: Reducing the inhalation of high-temperature cooking fumes can lower the risk of lung cancer in non-smoking women.

3) Wear protective masks properly: Occupational exposures to asbestos, cadmium, radon, and others must adhere to safety regulations.

4) Annual low-dose CT scans: For individuals over 40 years old who have a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more, early detection of lesions can be achieved.

Learn to 'cough effectively': inhale deeply → hold your breath for 1 second → contract your abdominal muscles to cough. This can help expel mucus and reduce atelectasis.

Seven, three action checklists for readers.

1) Keep a 'phlegm diary': note the color, quantity, whether there is blood, and any accompanying symptoms. Taking photos is even better.

If there is blood in the sputum or it persists for more than three weeks, regardless of whether there is a fever, go directly to the respiratory department and do not repeatedly take antibiotics on your own.

For those who have been diagnosed with pulmonary nodules, follow the doctor's advice for follow-up examinations. If there is a sudden change in the characteristics of the sputum, an earlier consultation should be scheduled.

A single sputum, seemingly ordinary, may actually be a 'distress signal' from your lungs.

Don't overlook the subtle changes in color and smell—checking them sooner gives you a better chance for recovery.

Health reminder: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a basis for diagnosis or treatment. Please follow the guidance of a qualified medical professional.

Author: Zhang Huanhuan, Chief Nurse in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Liu Xiaoyan, nurse in the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Zhou Qing, Chief Nurse of the Thoracic Surgery Department at the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Review: Zhang Na, Deputy Chief Nurse of the Thoracic Surgery Department at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

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