Mucus is a slippery, protective substance that keeps your airways, throat, and digestive tract moist, trapping and clearing out dust, allergens, and germs to help protect against irritation and ...

Mucus is a normal part of the lungs. But smoking and other issues can cause too much mucus to collect there. (Photo Credit: iStock/Getty Images) Your body makes about a liter (approximately 1 quart) ...

When you're sick you'll often produce more phlegm, and might notice it's thicker or a different color: white, green, yellow or maybe even brown. We all produce mucus, even when healthy. Mucus is a ...

Mucus consists mainly of water and a gel-forming molecule called mucin. The body uses mucus to protect tissues, remove particles, and prevent infections. Mucus is essential for the functioning of many ...

Emphysema causes a chronic, hacking cough that’s often accompanied by shortness of breath and a tightness in the chest. Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that causes ...

Coughing up mucus may be a sign of a respiratory infection or lung issue. The color of the mucus may help inform what’s going on. You may be able to clear mucus at home by staying hydrated, using a ...