You may think that clearing out mucus from your throat is actually highly recommended even when you think it is kind of embarrassing, especially if you’re in public. However, to avoid secondary infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, keep in mind that if mucus builds up, it can become infected with bacteria.
When it comes to coughing up clear frothy mucus, you don't have to feel embarrassed as it is normal bodily fluids. Mucus serves as a protective layer over our cells, catching particles such as dust, pollen, or bacteria.
Mucus also contains antibodies that help develop immunity and fight infection. When you get sick with an upper respiratory infection, a cold, or allergies, the mucus secreted by your respiratory tract becomes thicker and denser.
Additionally, mucus contains antibodies that help develop immunity and protect you against infection. When you have an upper respiratory infection, a cold, or allergies, the mucus created by your respiratory tract thickens and becomes denser -- this is when mucus turns into phlegm.
Since phlegm is much thicker in texture, it makes it more difficult to remove from your airways -- the nose, sinuses, and lungs. Phlegm, on the other hand, is your body's way of storing and eliminating bacteria.
What is Mucus?
Mucus provides lubrication and filtration to your respiratory system. It is produced by mucous membranes from the nose down to your lungs.
Each time you inhale, it leads mucus to collect allergies, viruses, dust, and other pollutants -- which then exhale out of your system. However, your body may have excessive mucus production, which necessitates frequent coughing.
While a healthy body requires some mucus, an excessive amount can be irritating. Excessive mucus production may be induced by the following:
- common cold or flu
- allergies
- nose, throat, or lungs irritation
- digestive conditions, such as acid reflux
- smoking tobacco products
- lung diseases, such as pneumonia, lung cancer, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Clearing Out Phlegm and Mucus
Several helpful strategies for controlling your mucus production include drinking plenty of water, not holding back coughs, coughing up extra mucus, gargling with salt water, and consuming the proper medications.
Furthermore, alleviate your symptoms and make breathing easier; try the following simple home remedies for removing excess mucus.
Increase the humidity in your surroundings.
Dry air irritates the nose and throat, encouraging the formation of more mucus to act as a lubricant. Putting a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom can improve sleep quality, keep the nose fresh, and help avoid sore throats.
Moisturizing the air around you will assist in maintaining a thin mucus which can help with phlegm and congestion. You may safely run the humidifier all day. You'll simply want to ensure that you change the water in your humidifier daily and clean it according to the manufacturer's directions.
Maintain adequate hydration.
The body needs adequate hydration to maintain a thin mucus. Consuming enough beverages, particularly warm ones, can aid with mucus flow. Water can help you breathe easier by assisting your mucus in moving.
Try everything from juice to clear broths to chicken soup. Additionally, decaffeinated tea, a glass of warm water, or infused water are all excellent drink choices.
Consume items that support respiratory health
Respiratory health-enhancing substances should be incorporated into your diet. Lemon, ginger, and garlic may be found in many dishes and beverages. They can help alleviate volds, coughs, and mucus buildup.
Moreover, cayenne peppers and chili peppers, which contain capsaicin, may also help clean sinuses and move mucus for a short period of time. A diet high in fruit fiber and potentially soy may alleviate respiratory difficulties associated with phlegm.
If you are using any prescription medications, consult with your physician before incorporating any new foods into your diet (some can affect the efficacy).
Gargle salt water
Gargling with warm salt water can assist in clearing mucus from the back of the throat. It may even be effective in killing bacteria and relieving sore throats. Additionally, it is a wise idea to use filtered or bottled water that is chlorine-free.
Take a sip of the mixture and slightly tilt your head back. Allow the mixture to wash down your throat without swallowing. Gargle for 30-60 seconds, gently blowing air up from your lungs, and then spitting up the water. Repeat as necessary.
Use a breathing trainer device.
This device may aid in the removal of mucus from the chest. A breathing exercise trainer from WellO2 is easy-to-use and can help clear mucus buildup in the respiratory tract, making it easier for you to breathe.
To use the device, all you have to do is inhale the steamy air that emerges from the device.
As you exhale, the device creates a resistance that strengthens and opens the airways. Moreover, the resistance strengthens the breathing muscles when you inhale, and the warm steam relaxes your vocal cords and lungs, clearing mucus out of your lungs.
In addition to clearing out mucus, WellO2’s breathing trainer also helps keep your breathing muscles strong and healthy, enhancing and strengthening respiratory endurance.
