Blood in the sputum is also known as haemoptysis. Sputum is usually the mucus substance you cough up from the airways and lungs. Phlegm is the specific term for the mixture of saliva and mucus from your nose, mouth and throat. There can be different causes for haemoptysis, some are serious, some are less so, but you should see your doctor in most circumstances, so they can work out the underlying cause. You may notice a few streaks in the sputum, which commonly come with a chest infection, or clots, or even a pink watery appearance, but these indicate an area of tissue damage, and warrant a discussion with your doctor.

Discover the effectiveness and considerations surrounding decongestants, vital medications employed to alleviate temporary nasal congestion. This comprehensive article, delves into the treatment, mechanisms of action, appropriate usage, contraindications, potential interactions, and side effects associated with decongestants. Providing Relief from Nasal Congestion Decongestants serve as a short-term solution for individuals experiencing nasal congestion caused by various factors such as colds, flu, sinusitis, and allergies like hay fever. Well-known examples of decongestants include pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, phenylephrine, oxymetazoline, xylometazoline, and ipratropium bromide. These medications are readily available over-the-counter at pharmacies. Different formulations, including tablets, capsules, oral liquids, nasal sprays, nasal drops, and powders, are accessible to meet individual needs. It is important to note that only one decongestant product should be used at a time.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, with just under 40,000 cases diagnosed each year and sadly it often has a poor outlook. Cancer occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lung tissue. This can cause a blockage in the airways or fluid on the lungs, making breathing difficult, and ultimately it can spread to other organs and cause widespread damage and threat to life. Smoking is the cause of most lung cancers – because smoking is so common, this makes lung cancer very common. Older people are more likely to be affected, and men more often than women. When cancer starts in the lungs it is called primary lung cancer. Cancer spreading from another organ via the blood to the lungs is known as secondary lung cancer, or metastatic cancer. Breast and bowel cancer often metastasise to the lungs, unless they are diagnosed and treated early.

Constant sneezes and a streaming nose can be common in the pollen season. If you suffer from hay fever, or allergic rhinitis in medical terms, you will feel desperate to rid yourself of the tissues and feeling of congestion. Our pharmacist has put together some solutions to ease your nasal symptoms with hay fever.

Experiencing an earache alongside a sore throat can be both uncomfortable and concerning. These symptoms often occur together, leading many to wonder if there is a direct connection between them. The relationship between the ear and throat will give you an understanding of the causes of earache and sore throat. This will help identify the underlying cause and find appropriate treatment. We will explore the common causes of these symptoms, their possible links, and how they might indicate various health conditions. The Link Between the Ear and the Throat Conditions often affect the ear and throat due to their interconnected structures and shared nerve pathways. The tube connecting the middle ear to the throat allows inflammation or infections in the throat to spread to the ear. Shared nerves can transmit pain from one area to the other, leading to referred discomfort. Additionally, the “lymphatic system”, which includes “lymph nodes” in the neck and throat, can cause swelling and tenderness that radiates to the ear. This connection explains why symptoms can simultaneously impact both areas.