[18F] Experiencing respiratory symptoms with yellow-brown phlegm

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the following conditions could be possible:

• Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the air passages between the nose and the lungs. It's often caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by bacteria or other factors. Symptoms typically include coughing up mucus, chest discomfort, and fatigue.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms. If the bronchitis is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed.

• Pneumonia: This is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest, and fluids.

• Tuberculosis: This is a serious bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis are spread from person to person through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes.

  • Treatment involves a course of several antibiotics for 6 to 9 months.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention given your symptoms. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

1. Rest and stay hydrated. This can help your body fight off an infection and speed up recovery.
2. Avoid spreading the illness to others by covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and washing your hands regularly.
3. Avoid smoke and other respiratory irritants.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain that worsens when you breathe or cough
• Coughing up blood

Please remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.