Hi Dawn,
Brown sputum and your other symptoms point towards a respiratory tract infection. Please consult your doctor quickly for a physical examination, some tests, and a prescription of antibiotics.
It may be a good idea to request additional imaging including paranasal sinuses and entire lung.
Flovent may be useful, but currently you also need antibiotics for the infection.
All the best,
Dr Saini
Hi,
THe CT scan has noted some scarring on the upper part of the lung.
There is some damage (called emphysema) in that area. This is perhaps a consequence of your previous smoking.
Overall this may not be of much clinical concern, especially if you have recently had a pulmonary function test and the reports are normal. Also, your clinical examination is normal, and your doctor has attempted to reassure you on this matter.
It is excellent that you have quit smoking.
Now quit worrying. Please lead a regular, healthy lifestyle, and see your pulmonologist at regular intervals. You need not unduly worry about this report.
All the best, and God Bless!
Dr Saini
A related discussion,
FLUID IN THE LEFT LUNG was started.
Thank you so much for answering my questions.
Just 3 days ago I started a having a productive cough which brings up a lot of bright yellow and brown mucus/phlegm. It is about the size of a nickel and it is constant. The morning is the worst time and is accompanied by wheezing and rasping. My chest feels heavy.
My right sinus is also congested and I am not getting anything out by blowing my nose but I do feel it draining down my throat. I do not have a pulmonologist (do you feel I need one?) and my pulmonary function test weren't really normal as it showed mild obstructive ventilatory defects. Since the radiologist could only see the top part of my lungs do you think it would be a good idea to get a ct scan of my entire lungs to see if the damage at the top of my lungs is also in other places? Also I wanted you opinion on the Flovent inhaler that my PCP suggested I use.
Thank you again for your help and God Bless you too!
Dawn