Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 21, 2025

Rapid Viscoelastic Characterization of Airway Mucus Using a Benchtop Rheometer
Published on: April 21, 2022
Is Persistent Thick Copious Mucus a Long-Term Symptom of COVID-19?
Patrick Manckoundia1,2, Evelyne Franon3
1Department of Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France.
Introduction:
The typical clinical picture of COVID-19 is gradually becoming clearer, both in the acute phase and in the long-term. However, new symptoms are gradually being identified. We describe a long-term symptom that has not yet been reported.
Case Description:
A 49-year-old man consulted for persistent asthenia. The general practitioner found a fever (39.2°C), and COVID-19 was confirmed by the polymerase chain reaction test. Further symptoms appeared, notably thick, white, painless tracheal hypersecretion for 3 months before diminishing, without disappearing.
Conclusion:
Non-inflammatory tracheal hypersecretion, not yet reported in COVID-19, may be an additional long-term symptom. The hyperstimulation of tracheal goblet cells secreting mucus is 1 pathophysiological hypothesis.
Learning Points:
Painless, non-inflammatory tracheal hypersecretion, which has yet to be described in post-acute COVID-19, may be an additional long-term symptom of the disease.The hyperstimulation of mucus-secreting tracheal goblet cells by the coronavirus, leading to tracheal discomfort and a feeling of suffocation, is 1 pathophysiological hypothesis.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Classification of Asthma
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction

