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What Causes Coughing Up Of Yellow Mucus?

Posted on Sat, 24 May 2014

Question: Hi, I was curious to know why, when I get up every morning, I cough up clear to yellow mucous, but I don't have any sign of a chest infection? This happens just about every morning. It's becoming annoying to me, and a put-off for my partner, who hears me! Any ideas? Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Praveen (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Lung infection.X-ray, Sputum examination

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear.Thanks for giving me an opportunity to address your query.

Early morning coughing up of yellow mucous is clearly indicative of infection of lung.Initial stages of Pneumonia/Lung abcess/Bronchiectasis all three conditions present with similar complaints and are equally common.

I were to do sputum examination, chest X ray to localize the infection (and rule out either of these conditions) as soon as possible and plan further management.

Hope this answers your query.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Praveen (14 hours later)

Hi, thank you for your answer. I will follow it up. Interesting to know what you think it could be. I suspected this, but wasn't certain. From sleeping position to standind each morning, it gets activated. Much appreciated.

Answered by Dr. Praveen (16 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Chest physiotherapy & followup

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing me back.
Presentation of symptoms are quite classical. It can be any of those conditions that I have mentioned. Chest physiotherapy with appropriate treatment should restore your health.
Get well soon. Do keep me posted. All the best.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj