Common Cold Concerns: Mucus, Phlegm, and Swallowing Issues Explained

I still have questions after the consultation?

Hello, doctor.
I have two questions I would like to ask you.
Today, I visited an otolaryngologist because I don't often seek medical attention, but I've been experiencing a lot of nasal discharge and phlegm over the past few days.
When I wake up, I tend to have some whitish-yellow nasal mucus, which then turns into clear, watery nasal discharge after I blow my nose.
The phlegm is similar.
After seeing the doctor, he said I have a cold.
However, when I got home, I happened to see something about white foamy phlegm being a sign of cancer, which made me feel quite uneasy.
I'm not sure if the slightly foamy phlegm or saliva I have is similar to that, but I recall having it even when I wasn't sick before, and my family members also have similar saliva or phlegm.
Am I being overly worried, or is it just a cold as the doctor mentioned, and is it unnecessary to go to a larger hospital for further examination?
My second question is, since I have a bit of a cold, I think I might have swallowed something hard, possibly a small bone from pork knuckle or something like that, while eating.
It felt hard going down, but I was able to wash it down with water afterward.
Could this lead to any serious issues? I'm a bit concerned about it getting stuck in my esophagus or trachea.
Thank you for addressing these two questions.

Xing, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/28

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
The color and foam of sputum are primarily for reference; most people's white foamy sputum is considered normal.
Diagnosing cancer requires additional diagnostic tools and is not solely based on the appearance of sputum, so you need not worry.

2.
If you swallowed it, it is mostly not a concern unless you experience any discomfort; otherwise, you do not need to worry.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/12/28

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your recent cold symptoms and swallowing issues. Let’s address each of your questions in detail.

Common Cold Symptoms: Mucus and Phlegm
From what you described, it sounds like you are experiencing typical symptoms of a common cold, which often includes nasal congestion, runny nose, and the production of mucus or phlegm. The color of your mucus can vary depending on several factors, including the stage of your illness and the presence of any secondary infections.
1. Color of Mucus:
- Clear Mucus: This is usually associated with allergies or the early stages of a cold.

- White or Yellow Mucus: This can indicate that your body is fighting off an infection. The white color suggests that white blood cells are present, while yellow can indicate that the infection is more established.

- Foamy Mucus: While you mentioned seeing white, foamy phlegm, this can occur during a cold or respiratory infection and is often not a cause for concern. It can be a result of mucus mixing with air and saliva, especially when you are congested.

2. Concerns About Cancer:
- It’s understandable to feel anxious when you read about symptoms that could be associated with serious conditions like cancer. However, the presence of foamy or bubbly mucus alone, especially in the context of a cold, is not indicative of cancer. If your doctor has diagnosed you with a cold, it is likely that your symptoms are related to that and not something more serious. If you continue to have concerns or if your symptoms worsen, it’s always a good idea to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Swallowing Issues: Hard Particles in Food
Regarding your second concern about swallowing hard particles, such as small bones or hard bits of food, here are some points to consider:
1. Swallowing Hard Particles:
- If you swallowed a small piece of food or bone and it went down with water, it is likely that it has passed through your esophagus and into your stomach without causing any issues. The esophagus is designed to transport food and liquids, and small, soft pieces typically do not cause blockages.

- However, if you experience persistent pain, difficulty swallowing, or a sensation of something stuck in your throat, you should seek medical attention.
2. Potential Risks:
- While small, soft pieces of food are generally safe to swallow, larger or sharper objects can pose a risk of injury to the esophagus or airway. If you ever feel that something is stuck or if you have difficulty breathing, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms of nasal congestion and phlegm are consistent with a common cold, and the presence of foamy mucus is typically not a cause for alarm. As for swallowing hard particles, if you have not experienced any adverse symptoms since swallowing, it is likely that you are fine. However, if you have any ongoing concerns or if your symptoms change, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for peace of mind.

Remember to stay hydrated, rest, and consider over-the-counter medications to alleviate your cold symptoms. If you have any further questions or if your symptoms persist, please reach out to your doctor. Take care!

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