Why you have too much white sputum?

1. Allergies

Allergies, such as hay fever or pet allergies, can cause your body to produce excess mucus, which can lead to white sputum. This is because when you're exposed to an allergen, your body produces antibodies to fight it off. These antibodies can bind to cells in your respiratory tract, causing them to release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. These chemicals can cause your blood vessels to dilate and your airways to swell, which can lead to increased mucus production.

2. Cold or flu

Colds and the flu are also common causes of white sputum. These viruses can infect your respiratory tract and cause inflammation, which can lead to increased mucus production. The mucus produced during a cold or flu is often thick and white, and it may contain dead cells and bacteria. It's normal for mucus production to increase during a cold or flu, as it helps to trap and remove these viruses from your body.

3. Sinus infection

Sinus infections are another common cause of white sputum. These infections occur when the sinuses become inflamed and filled with fluid. This fluid can drain into the back of your throat, causing a cough and producing white sputum. The sputum produced during a sinus infection is often thick and cloudy, and it may contain pus.

4. Chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammatory condition that affects the airways. This condition can cause repeated episodes of coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It can also produce white sputum, which is often thick and difficult to cough up.

5. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause inflammation and fluid buildup. This can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Pneumonia can also produce white sputum, which is often thick and cloudy and may contain blood.

6. Pulmonary edema

Pulmonary edema is a condition that causes fluid buildup in the lungs. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart failure, kidney failure, and certain medications. Pulmonary edema can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. It can also produce white sputum, which is often frothy and may contain blood.

When to see a doctor

It's important to see a doctor if you have white sputum that won't go away or is accompanied by any other symptoms such as:

* Fever

* Shortness of breath

* Chest pain

* Coughing up blood

* Wheezing