There are a number of things that can be signs of infections in the lungs: increased shortness of breath, increased need for 02, coughing, change in color of mucus, temperature, fatigue, chills, wheezing and many other signs as well. You need to be aware of your own specific reactions when you have a respiratory infection so you can recognize them and seek treatment ASAP. The two signs I watch for are change in the color of my mucus and fatigue. Those two signs send me to start azithromycin and call my doc. You need to learn your own body's language so you can catch things before they become major problems.

Hi, @A MyCOPDTeam Member:

What everyone else said, but I’ll add to @A MyCOPDTeam Member’s color reference:

Clear sputum = reasonably healthy
White / grey / cloudy = getting congested or coming off of a chest cold / infection
Yellow sputum = infection setting in or easing (it runs on a bell curve)
Bright green sputum = infection

REF: https://www.geisinger.org/health-and-wellness/w...

Any of these colors can be tinged with red or brown (blood, new and old), but once you start to see normally clear sputum get more opaque / cloud up, it’s time to call the doc to see if you need antibiotics to nip it in the bud.

Also, if you don’t do deep breathing exercises hourly if you feel congested / coming down with a cold or infection, please consider doing them to exercise your lungs and try to expel any congestion. I do 20 deep breaths in and 20 deep breaths out every hour I’m up and awake when I’m not feeling my best.

Hope everyone’s answers help you. Hugs,

Monday, 14-AUG-23

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I don't think you can. Has to be checked out by the doc. If you're having questionable symptoms, it's probably best to give him a call.

Thanks to ALL OF YOU!!😀
Great information!
I know I have a sinus infection and asked my doc for antibiotics and steroid to keep it from getting into my lungs. I had to really push, it took 2 days but I succeeded!
I wanted to have an idea of what signs to look for before it got to that point.
I really appreciate your information and support.
Hugs to all and take care! 💕
Ginger

Hi Joanne
Can I just add Green (dark) = infection
Take care
Eric x