Phlegm is one of the most important substances of the human body and plays a very significant role in the immune systems capacity to fight off certain infections. First and foremost, the substance is secreted primarily by the mucous membranes to ward off any irritation caused by foreign bodies or substances clinging onto the bronchial mucosa. Some of the more common irritants that play their part in increasing the body's development of phlegm include tobacco smoke, dust, dirt as well as general environmental pollution. Once secreted by the mucous membranes, the phlegm will absorb the irritant and then be passed out of the body - usually by a coughing action. One should also not ignore the fact that the texture and viscosity of the phlegm could also be a very important part of the diagnosis of a condition affecting the patient. For example, a thicker and heavier sort of phlegm is usually indicative of the individual suffering from some kind of respiratory infection - usually caused by a bacterial or viral organism.
Red phlegm is something that should be given adequate attention as it could possibly indicate some kind of blood loss inside the respiratory tract. In most cases, the blood content of red phlegm is usually the result of a ruptured blood vessel caused by excessive coughing or a nose bleed. However, these instances will usually resolve themselves on their own. However, if the red phlegm continues to be present for a drawn out period of time, it is highly recommended that you visit a doctor and have a few tests carried out.
Because of the fact that phlegm, including red phlegm, is such a common occurrence, there are a number of home remedies that could help you treat the root condition and make life much more comfortable. You could create a concoction by boiling some basil leaves, single teaspoon of ginger and another teaspoon of black pepper powder in a cup of water. Consume a single tablespoon of the potion at least 4 times a day for best results. You could also try extracting the juice of a piece of ginger and add a single teaspoon of honey before consuming it three times a day. If you find that the phlegm appears to be constricting your chest, the best action to take would be to loosen it a bit. This could be achieved by simply inhaling steam; although it would require some amount of carefulness as one would not want to inadvertently scald their nostrils while doing so.
answered by G M