Worried about mucus in your chest? (Mucus/Phlegm) Let's talk about the causes and remedies!

Phlegm is something we hear and experience all the time. In fact, our bodies naturally produce mucus all the time. So, having mucus is not a sign of illness. This mucus (also called 'Phlegm' when it forms in the respiratory system) covers the tissues in our nose, mouth, throat, and lungs. It cleans our nasal passages, keeps the tissues moist, filters out things like dust and bacteria that we breathe in, and protects us from infections. Think of it as a natural filter in our body.

Our bodies normally produce about a liter of mucus per day. However, if this amount of mucus increases, especially if it accumulates in places like the lungs, it can be a bit bothersome and may even be a sign of a health problem.

Why does mucus increase like this? What are the reasons?

There are several main reasons that contribute to excess sebum production. Let's take a look at what they are.

Gastritis (Acid Reflux) and Mucus

If you have gastritis or acid reflux, stomach acid can flow back up into your throat. This can cause a sore throat, a runny nose, and postnasal drip. Symptoms include coughing, especially at night , frequent clearing of your throat, and frequent swallowing.

Allergies and allergies

Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, from itchy eyes and sneezing to chest tightness and coughing. Especially if you have an allergy to something in the air, such as dust or pollen, your lungs can react. This causes excess mucus to build up in your nose and throat.

Asthma and phlegm

Asthma is a condition that causes difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and coughing with mucus. This means that your airways are inflamed, meaning they are swollen from the inside. However, if you cough up a small amount of white or colorless mucus, it is nothing to worry about.

Infections and phlegm

When we have infections like the flu, cold, acute bronchitis, and pneumonia, our airways produce more mucus. This mucus is coughed up and can be green or yellow . Although COVID-19 does not usually cause chest congestion, it can cause pneumonia as a complication.

COPD and smoking

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a combination of several lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It makes it difficult to breathe. In chronic bronchitis, the airways become inflamed and mucus production increases, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly. The main cause of this is prolonged exposure to things like cigarette smoke .

If you are a smoker, think about this especially. The nicotine in cigarettes causes the tiny hair-like structures in your lungs (called cilia) to become inactive for a while. Normally, these cilia are responsible for pushing mucus out of your lungs. So when they don't work, the mucus builds up and thickens. Because your body doesn't like this build-up of mucus, you have to cough constantly to get it out. This is what we call 'Smoker's Cough'.

Cystic Fibrosis

This is a rare, genetic condition that is present at birth. A defect in a protein in the body causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus in the lungs and other organs. This can lead to blockages, infections, and damage to organs. Newborns are usually screened for this.

Things you can do at home to get rid of chest congestion

There are a few simple things you can do yourself to reduce phlegm.

• Drink plenty of fluids: Drink plenty of fluids like water, cilantro, ginger tea, and chicken soup. These help thin mucus. Stay away from things that dehydrate the body like coffee and alcohol.
• Breathe in steam: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in the room. Or, heat water to create a nice steam, cover your head, and breathe in the steam. This moistens the airways and loosens mucus.
• Using Saline: You can use a saline nasal spray, available at pharmacies, to remove dirt and excess mucus from the nose. You can also make this at home. Mix a teaspoon of non-iodized salt, two cups of boiled water, and a pinch of baking soda. However, you should follow the correct instructions when using these methods.
• Change your position: If you have a cough and mucus in your throat when you lie down, sleep with your head slightly elevated on two or three pillows.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking tobacco or anything else irritates the airways and increases mucus production.
• Cough correctly: Coughing in a controlled manner helps to clear mucus. Sit in a chair with both feet on the floor. Take a deep breath through your nose and hold it for two seconds. Lean forward slightly and cough two short times. Then relax. Repeat this as needed.
• Clean air filters: Other things in the air at home can also contribute to mucus buildup. So make sure the filters on your AC and fans are clean.
• Expectorants: Some cough syrups contain the expectorant guaifenesin. However, it is safest to consult your doctor before taking any medication .

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When do you need to see a doctor?

If it's just mucus, it's not a big problem. But if you have the symptoms below, definitely see your doctor.

• If the cough does not subside after a few weeks.
• If the mucus is green or yellow .
• If there is blood coming out with the mucus.
• If you have a fever or difficulty breathing .

This chart will help you get a little idea of ​​what the color of your mucus says.

Does honey relieve phlegm?

Yes, some studies have shown that honey can reduce mucus secretion. Honey can also help relieve sore throats and coughs. Honey has also been shown to be effective as a cough syrup for children.

Important: Do not give honey to babies under one year old. Although very rare, they can develop a dangerous condition called 'Infantile Botulism'. For adults, you can drink two teaspoons of honey straight or mixed into a tea.