Mucus buildup in the throat and chest can cause difficulty breathing and discomfort. The main causes of this are as follows:
1. Infections
Common colds, influenza (flu), and sinusitis are the main causes of phlegm. When viruses or bacteria enter the body, the body produces more mucus to flush them out.
2. Allergies
Excessive mucus production in the nose and throat can be caused by allergies to dust, pollen, pet dander, or air pollution.
3. Smoking
Smokers tend to produce more mucus in their lungs. Smoke damages the cleaning system in the lungs, causing the mucus to build up in the chest instead of coming out (Smoker’s Cough).
4. Asthma and lung diseases
It is common for people with asthma to have swollen airways and produce more mucus. Chronic lung diseases such as bronchitis and COPD can also cause phlegm.
5. Acid Reflux/GERD
People with GERD, a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the throat, often experience discomfort in the throat and it feels like phlegm. This is also called ‘silent reflux’.
6. Dehydration
Not drinking enough water causes the body’s secretions to thicken. This is why phlegm gets thicker and sticks to the throat.
3 simple ways to reduce phlegm:
Steam: Steaming twice a day can help dissolve the phlegm in the lungs.
Gargle with salt water: Gargling with lukewarm salt water can help reduce infection and loosen mucus.
Ginger-honey mixture: Ginger juice mixed with a little honey is an excellent remedy for sore throat and congestion.
