Chest congestion is a major health problem that bothers most people when the weather changes and when they eat cold foods. Mucus is actually a fluid that the body naturally produces to protect our respiratory system. It blocks dust and germs that enter through the airways. But for some specific reasons, this mucus is produced excessively and becomes thick and accumulates in the lungs and throat, which turns into phlegm. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind this:
Viral and bacterial infections (Respiratory Infections): The most important cause of phlegm is infections that affect the lungs. When viruses or bacteria such as rhinovirus, influenza, and Covid that cause colds enter the airways and cause infection (for example, bronchitis or inflammation of the airways, pneumonia), the body produces a large amount of phlegm as part of its defense. This causes a buildup of mucus in the chest.
Allergies & Pollutants: People who are allergic to dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold quickly develop swelling in their airways. Along with this, those who constantly breathe in vehicle fumes, chemical odors, and air pollution also produce more mucus to protect themselves.
Asthma & COPD: People with chronic lung diseases such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) have narrowed and swollen airways. When exposed to even the slightest cold or dust, their airway glands become stimulated and produce large amounts of thick mucus. This leads to severe shortness of breath.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD / Acidity): This is a condition in which stomach acid refluxes into the throat and esophagus. When the acid continuously irritates the lining of the throat (Irritation), thick mucus forms in the throat to protect it. This acidity is often the culprit behind chronic throat congestion.
Smoking & Lifestyle: Nicotine and other toxins in cigarette smoke damage the tiny hair-like cells called cilia that help expel mucus from the lungs. This causes mucus to accumulate in the lungs instead of being expelled (Smoker’s Cough). Along with this, not drinking enough water and staying in a cold environment for a long time also cause the mucus to thicken.
