A physician and public health educator, Dr Maryam Ahmed Almustapha, has advised Nigerians to pay attention to the colour and consistency of their phlegm, saying it can be an early warning sign of serious health conditions that require medical attention.
Speaking in an interview with our correspondent on Saturday, Dr. Almustapha noted that changes in phlegm are often ignored but can indicate underlying problems in the body.
According to her, brown, yellow or green phlegm may be a sign of infection such as pneumonia.
She added that foamy phlegm can indicate heart disease, especially when fluid begins to build up in the lungs.
The physician further explained that bloody phlegm could point to tuberculosis or lung cancer and should be checked by a doctor immediately.
She also noted that excessive production of phlegm over a long period may be associated with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
“Phlegm is not just something to spit out and forget. When the colour changes or the amount becomes too much, your body is telling you something is wrong. Early diagnosis saves lives”, she cautioned.
Dr. Almustapha also stressed that smokers and people whose work exposes them to dust are more vulnerable to lung-related diseases.
She advised the public to visit a hospital or clinic if they notice persistent changes in their phlegm.