What is expectoration?

We all have weird things that come out of our bodies. Sometimes, it’s gross and disgusting like phlegm or snot, but other times the results can be quite satisfying. But have you ever wondered why these substances exist in the first place? That’s where expectoration comes in! This article is going to tell you everything you need to know about expectoration- From what it means to how it works.

What Is Expectoration?

Let’s start with a simple definition: Expectoration refers to the act of spitting or coughing up mucus or phlegm from your respiratory tract.

To put it simply, expectorate[1] is just a fancy word for coughing up sputum, aka loogie. So next time somebody asks if you’re expecting anything exciting today, say “Yeah I’m expecting some sick beats from my lungs this afternoon”. Trust us; they will never ask again.

Why Does It Happen?

This might gross some people out (particularly those who are eating right now), but there’s always mucus present within our respiratory tract!

It helps keep things moist and usually doesn’t cause any problem until foreign materials like smoke particles or viruses attack our system— then our body starts producing more mucus to protect itself (like when your mom gets extra protective when someone makes fun of her precious baby).

So basically no need for alarm- its’ natural defense mechanism!

How Does Expectoration Work?

The Anatomy Of Your Respiratory System

Before we dive into how expectoration specifically works let’s give a quick overview of your respiratory system:

The respiratory system comprises organs such as the nose/mouth –> larynx/voice box –> trachea/windpipe leading down into two different primary bronchi which eventually lead into tiny little bronchioles that end with teeny air sacs called alveoli.

This system allows us to inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide when we breath.

Getting Rid of Unwanted Junk

Alright, back on track – unwanted junk aka mucus is usually cleared out from our respiratory tract by an ingenious “mucociliary escalator.”

What’s that you may ask?

It’s basically a bunch of little hairs called cilia located in the lining of our respiratory tract. They beat rapidly, moving all foreign substances like pollen or dust up and away from the lungs (like tiny traffic control workers).

However, sometimes things can get backed up- whether due to infection or environmental factors. Unable to be transported with regular methods, this trapped mucus instead collects together into those lovely balls we spit up (yum!)

Rest assured though that getting rid of these ‘gobbers’ helps prevent infections such as Pneumonia since they basically act as breeding grounds if left alone.

What Does Expectoration Look Like?

Expectoration comes with various flavors depending on what caused it:
Phlegm: Thick and gooey which is usually produced when dealing w/ inflammation/infection
Mucoid Sputum: Semi-transparent & not very viscous; Could come from something small like allergies
Purulent Sputum: This type contains pus which indicates bacterial infection.

There are plenty more types out there so standby for whatever masterpiece your body has cooked up next time!

When Should You See A Doctor?

If The Following Symptoms Develop:

If you’re coughing/phlegming consistently for several days alongside:
– Shortness of breath
– Chest pain/tightness
-Chills/Fever etc..

These symptoms may indicate pneumonia/Bronchitis [2] etc.,and therefore its highly important seeking medical attention immediately!

ProTip: Do not diagnose yourself via Google Search!…Leave that nonsense to hypochondriacs!

In Conclusion

Expectoration may seem a little gross, but it’s an essential mechanism for clearing out mucus and other foreign objects in our respiratory system. Don’t be embarrassed; we’ve all been there before.

Take care of your lungs dear reader!

Sources

  1. https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6828
  2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323917

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