Explanation

A phlegm test is when a doctor takes a sample of your phlegm (mucus) and sends it to a laboratory. In the laboratory, it is tested to see if it contains certain types of bacteria that usually grow if you have the illness being tested for.

Why do I need one?

A phlegm test is used to help your doctor see if you have illnesses like cystic fibrosis or tuberculosis.

What happens before I have it?

You don't need to do anything to prepare for a phlegm test.

How is it done?

Your doctor will give you a cup and ask you to cough up some phlegm into the cup. This is a time when it's actually OK to spit! Your doctor will then send the phlegm to a laboratory for testing.

Will it hurt?

No. A phlegm test doesn't hurt at all. It's really only a good cough!

What happens next?

You can go home straight after a phlegm test. Your doctor will discuss the results with you when he or she gets them from the laboratory.

What if I have any more questions?

If you have any other questions, you can ask your doctor, or chat to other people about having a phlegm test in the Medikidz forums and virtual world, Mediland.