Pleural effusion fluid, also known as fluid in the lungs, can be clear, straw-colored, yellow, or even bloody. The color depends on the cause of the effusion.
For example, a clear or straw-colored fluid might indicate a heart failure or infection, while a yellow fluid could be a sign of an infection or inflammation. Bloody fluid can be a sign of trauma, cancer, or other serious conditions.
It is important to note that the color of the fluid alone is not a definitive diagnosis. A doctor will need to perform further tests, such as a chest x-ray or CT scan, to determine the cause of the effusion.