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Increased Mucus Production

By Deborah Leader, RN, About.com

Updated June 10, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Increased mucus, or sputum production, is the reaction of the lungs to a constantly recurring irritant such as cigarette smoke or air pollution. An overproduction of mucus is commonly associated with COPD.

A change in the amount, color or tenacity of sputum is often extremely significant and may indicate the presence of a bacterial infection or other type of lung condition, such as pulmonary edema, chronic bronchitis or bronchiectasis.

Common relief measures include:

Also Known As: increased sputum production
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