Phlegm (Sputum) Production
Experiencing a significant amount of mucus discharge from the lungs rather than the sinuses, this could be another warning sign of this condition.
Phlegm or as otherwise called mucus or sputum, are needed to help trap and remove foreign particles from the lungs. These protective substances are secreted by the cell lining of the bronchi and bronchioles and are often expelled when clearing your throat and coughing.
The amount of mucus expelled may increase due to increased production by goblet cells and a reduced ability to get rid of mucus as a result of dysfunctional cilia structure lining the airways. For people dealing with a bacterial lung infection may experience a larger amount of thick phlegm, which often results in symptoms of COPD being exacerbated. Also, the consistency and color of the mucus may differ due to the presence of a bacterial infection. [2]
