What it means
A slimy fluid that coats the airways, nose, digestive tract and other linings. It traps dust and germs and keeps tissues moist. Mucus coughed up from the lungs is sputum or phlegm. Its color and thickness change with infection, smoking and fluid intake.
For the nurse
Fluids and humidity thin mucus so it is easier to cough up. Describe the color, amount and thickness of any secretions.
Remember it
Mucous with an "o" describes; mucus is the stuff.
At a glance
| Spanish | moco, mucosidad |
|---|
Easy to confuse with
mucous
Relating to mucus or making mucus, as in mucous membrane.
Related terms
secretion
A substance a gland or cell makes and releases, such as mucus, saliva, sweat or a hormone.
mucosa
The moist lining of body passages that open to the outside, such as the mouth, nose, gut and bladder.
cough
A sudden, forceful burst of air from the lungs that clears the airways.
mucous
Relating to mucus or making mucus, as in mucous membrane.