Pus Sputum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Pus Sputum?

Pus sputum refers to the presence of thick, yellow, green, or sometimes blood-tinged mucus that is coughed up from the lungs or airways. This type of sputum is typically a sign of an ongoing infection in the respiratory tract, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or other lower respiratory tract infections. Pus in the sputum occurs as the body fights off the infection and produces excess mucus to help expel harmful pathogens.

Causes of Pus Sputum

• Pneumonia. Pneumonia is a bacterial or viral infection that affects the lungs and can lead to the production of pus-filled sputum as the body tries to expel the bacteria or virus.
• Bronchitis. Bronchitis, which can be acute or chronic, causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes and often results in the production of yellow or green sputum due to bacterial infection.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In people with COPD, exacerbations of the condition can lead to increased mucus production, which may contain pus if a secondary bacterial infection occurs.
• Sinus Infections. Infections in the sinuses, such as sinusitis, can cause pus to drain down the back of the throat, leading to coughing up yellow or green mucus.
• Tuberculosis. Tuberculosis, a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, can result in a significant amount of pus-filled sputum, often accompanied by coughing up blood (hemoptysis).

Symptoms of Pus Sputum

• Thick, Yellow or Green Sputum. Pus sputum is often thick and colored yellow, green, or brown, depending on the type of infection.
• Persistent Cough. Coughing, often productive, is the primary symptom of pus sputum, and it may worsen over time as the infection progresses.
• Chest Pain or Discomfort. Respiratory infections that cause pus sputum can lead to chest tightness, discomfort, or pain, especially during coughing.
• Fever and Chills. Infections in the lungs or respiratory tract that lead to pus sputum are often associated with fever, chills, and a general feeling of malaise.
• Difficulty Breathing. In severe cases, the infection may affect lung function, leading to shortness of breath or wheezing.

Treatment for Pus Sputum

• Antibiotics. If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection and reduce pus production in the lungs.
• Expectorants. Medications that thin the mucus, such as guaifenesin, can help make the sputum easier to cough up and clear from the airways.
• Cough Suppressants. If the coughing is severe or causing discomfort, cough suppressants may be recommended, but they should not be used if the cough is productive (producing sputum).
• Inhalers and Nebulizers. For respiratory infections or chronic conditions like asthma or COPD, inhalers or nebulizer treatments may be used to reduce inflammation and improve airflow.
• Rest and Hydration. Resting and drinking plenty of fluids can help the body fight off infection and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract.