Which color sputum could indicate congestive heart failure?

• A. Pink
• B. Clear
• C. Blue
• D. Brown

Answer: (A)

Pink, frothy sputum is a classic sign of pulmonary edema from congestive heart failure. When the left side of the heart fails, fluid backs up into the lungs and leaks into the alveoli, mixing with a small amount of blood. That combination gives sputum its pink color and foamy texture, reflecting rapid fluid accumulation and respiratory strain. Clear sputum can occur with many non-heart–related conditions and isn’t specific for heart failure. Brown sputum suggests old blood or infection, not the acute fluid overload seen in CHF. Blue isn’t a typical descriptor for sputum in heart failure and would point to other issues like severe hypoxemia or methemoglobinemia.