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Before discussing the remedies for phlegm in throat, have a detailed look at the phlegm, and its causes and symptoms. Various infections of the upper airways and throat can lead to excessive throat mucus that is hard to get rid of. When bacteria or viruses cause infection, the body produces more mucus to trap and destroy the germs. This can cause chronic coughing, clearing of the throat, and sneezing. A common reason for constant phlegm in the throat is heartburn. The excess phlegm is caused because stomach acid comes back up the esophagus and irritates the lining of the upper respiratory system.
Mucus is a sticky substance that our bodies produce naturally. When our bodies are fighting off infections or colds, they tend to produce excess mucus. The mucus can then collect in our mouths, making it difficult to drink and eat 2. If the extra mucus in your mouth begins to bother you, you can take an active roll and do something about it 2. Eucalyptus oil has long been used as an herbal mucus relief product. The most effective way to use eucalyptus oil is to line the upper chest area with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and then rub in a few drops of the eucalyptus oil.
Asthma Associated With GERD
Along with milk products, caffeine, sugar, salt, non- herbal teas, all create excess mucus. Soy is one of the most mucus making plant foods there is. Those who give up meats and dairy and switch to soy products, have a greater risk of creating an unhealthy mucus build up in the body. Unfortunately, some foods can cause throat mucus, and if you are already dealing with throat mucus, the last thing you want to do is add to the problem. Milk and milk products like yogurt, cottage cheese and butter, cause excess mucus in the throat. These items carry protein molecules called casein that increases secretions of mucus and is difficult to digest.
This is due to its potassium content, which is known to help with runny noses. ACV also has natural antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help in fighting infections that result in excessive phlegm production . But, phlegm clogs and irritates the bronchial tubes, causing a secondary upper respiratory infection if it isn’t treated timely.
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The University of Pittsburg Medical Center says that in addition to excess mucus, smoking causes the mucus to become thicker. Smoking also damages the lungs’ clearing system and it can become more difficult to get rid of the thick mucus in the airways. Mix one tablespoon of lavender oil, peppermint oil, or thyme oil with two tablespoons of olive oil and massage your throat and chest. This tip can work to loosen mucus in the throat, helping to reduce the cough and help to make nasal breathing easier. Grapefruit contains salicylic acid, which has great antiseptic properties. If your symptoms of thick mucus last for more than 10 days, contact a healthcare provider for advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
We look at 10 ways to help relieve nighttime coughing. 1,8-cineol reduces mucus-production in a novel human ex vivo model of late rhinosinusitis. Excess phlegm and mucus may irritate in the short term, but OTC medications and lifestyle changes can ensure a positive outlook for most individuals. Read more about the guide to gargling with salt water here. People with seasonal allergies may also find that staying hydrated helps reduce congestion. Your doctor may prescribe medication to handle the underlying cause of excess phlegm – antihistamines , antibiotics , or steroids can help.
Top 25 Natural Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat In Adults & Kids
Most sinus infections resolve on their own within 10 days, but here are some things you can do to help get rid of sinusitis and improve your symptoms. Excess or thick phlegm from time to time is usually not a reason for concern. You may notice it in the morning because it’s accumulated and dried overnight. You may also notice phlegm more if you’re sick, have seasonal allergies, or if you’re dehydrated. Hypertonic saline is a treatment that’s inhaled through a nebulizer. It’s stronger than an OTC saline solution, which means it can sometimes be more effective.
The nose and throat glands produce approximately one to two liters of mucus a day, and more if you’re sick or if allergies have kicked in. Mucus can come from the stomach and from the sinuses. Mucolytics, such as hypertonic saline and dornase alfa are mucus thinners that you inhale through a nebulizer. If your excess mucus is triggered by a bacterial infection, your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics. Avoid intake of dairy products, meat, and fried foods, all of which are known to increase mucus production.
Excess Mucus in Throat Causes
It may be caused by allergies, dry air, or an infection. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. In most cases, phlegm and mucus are signs of a mild condition that home care should resolve. Home remedies or OTC medications can help relieve symptoms.
Either you may try taking some anti allergic pill for some time. You may continue with your medications to manage the situation. Also, read above about other home methods to manage the situation. Second, you may be having some infection in your blood that’s giving you the chill. For that, you need to go to the ER and get yourself evaluated.
Avoid consumption of meat, fried foods, and dairy products, as they may increase mucus production. Mix the apple cider vinegar with warm water and add some honey to improve the taste. Consume the mixture twice daily for quick relief. Horseradish is another therapeutic root that you can use to clear up symptoms of sinus infections and colds. To find out more, please read my article on how to use horseradish to clear up congestion. Gargling with salt water is a simple home remedy which can help to kill mucus-causing infections in your throat and upper airways.
Dissolve a teaspoon of Himalayan pink salt in a cup of hot water. Allow to cool slightly and then gargle with this solution. Repeat several times a day for continued relief. Oestrogen is to blame for mucus in throat during pregnancy. Most times we are not even aware that we swallow mucus.
Time spent in a steam-filled bathroom will help to loosen and clear mucus in the nose and throat. Allowing hot water to pulse on the face can also bring relief from sinus pressure. Some foods can cause reactions that mimic seasonal allergies. They may cause the nose to run and the throat to itch, leading to excess mucus. Make a record of foods that trigger an increase in phlegm or mucus.
Neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, fight off infection. When moving slowly, they stay in the areas of your body where infection exists for longer. Nutrition can play a role in throat mucus, too. Some foods can actually contribute to throat mucus and other foods can help relieve it. Though not always, a little mucus in throat usually doesn’t ruin your day. If you have a chronic problem you may be wondering what the problem is.
Most cases of thick mucus are due to respiratory viral infections that are self-limiting . Treating your symptoms with over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, decongestants, and expectorants may help you feel better. OTC cough and cold medicines should not be used for children under age 4.
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