I'm a bit concerned and would like some advice. I had COVID back in May and recovered at home with a mild case of lung pneumonia. I was on blood thinners at the time but stopped after my D-Dimer results returned to normal. Since recovering, I haven't had a cough or cold, but I sometimes notice black streaks in my phlegm, usually just once in the morning. I already spoke with a pulmonologist who told me to get a CBC and chest X-ray; everything came back normal. He said a CT isn't needed unless I start coughing, which I haven't. Is it common to have these black streaks in phlegm after COVID? At what point should I be concerned, and do you think I need any further tests? Here's a picture for reference. What do you think?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Kareemulla Shaik

General Practitioner

MBBS
0+ Yrs

Consult Now

The presence of black streaks in phlegm, especially in the morning, can be a common post-COVID-19 symptom, possibly due to lingering inflammation, mucus, or fungal growth, and since your CBC, chest X-ray, and previous D-Dimer tests are normal, your pulmonologist's advice to monitor and not pursue further testing unless symptoms worsen or new ones develop is reasonable; however, if you experience increased frequency, thickness, or color change of the phlegm, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or fever, seek immediate medical attention to rule out potential complications like pulmonary embolism, bronchiectasis, or opportunistic infections.

Dr. Kareemulla Suggests...

Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Find a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

More Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine Health Queries

View all

I'm really worried about the situation. Could you explain what the score significance is in this context? Also, how long might it take for the patient to recover if they've already started taking Remdesivir and their oxygen level is around 90-92?

CT score the more ,the more is severity

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm dealing with some breathing issues, like shortness of breath, and it's been more than 10 years. I've gone to various doctors, and they said it's allergies. So, I went to see a pulmonologist. They suggested I do FENO and PFT tests. My FENO result came back as 19 ppb, and PFT was normal. They gave me a Foracart 200 inhaler and some meds for allergies, but it's been five days and I haven't noticed a difference. Should I be worried, or could this take more time? What should I do next?

take asthalin inhaler

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm having trouble with breathing and a persistent cough, and it sometimes feels like my throat is tight. My doctor checked my chest X-ray and said everything looks fine. I've been taking Montemac FX and Spirodin 650 regularly. Can you help me figure out what might be going on or what else I could do?

start a course of tablet.amoxyclav for 5 days amd drink hot water

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

Respiratory Tract Infection

Upper Respiratory Infection Signs: A Complete Symptom Guide

Learn the complete signs of an upper respiratory infection (URI), from nasal congestion and sore throat to fatigue. Discover causes, red flag symptoms, and effective relief options for a smoother recovery.

Tuberclosis

World Tuberculosis Day Overview and Theme

Explore the significance of World Tuberculosis Day, its history, and annual theme. Learn about global efforts to raise awareness, prevention, and control of tuberculosis.

respiratory-conditions

Lung Ailments Consultant Pulmonologist

Consult a pulmonologist for expert care on lung ailments like asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention for better lung health.

Pneumonia

Guide to Preventing Pneumonia In Cold Weather

Protect your lungs this winter. Learn essential tips for preventing pneumonia in cold weather, including vaccination, lifestyle changes, and when to seek medical care.

Smoking Cessation

Guide to Reasons Why Smoking Bad Your Lungs

Discover the harmful effects of smoking on your lungs. This comprehensive guide explains the key reasons why smoking is detrimental to respiratory health, from COPD and lung cancer risks to impaired lung function.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.