Overview
Mucus is a water-based secretion that is naturally produced by the lining of the respiratory tract to protect the airway and to get rid of foreign particles. Viscid mucus refers to mucus that is abnormally thick and large in amount. Examples of respiratory tract disorders associated with viscid mucus are influenza, asthma, bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis. Some signs and symptoms associated with this condition are cough with sputum production, coughing out blood, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest congestion, chest pain, wheezing, loss of appetite and loss of weight. Respiratory tract disorders with viscid mucus can be diagnosed through the chest and lung examination, chest x-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bronchoscopy, sputum culture and sensitivity, and blood tests. Mucolytics and expectorants can be used to dilute the mucus and facilitate the expulsion of mucus. However, the treatment varies depending on the causes.
