Mucus is a fluid that the body naturally produces to protect the lungs and expel germs. However, an increase in its amount can cause discomfort.
Some of the main reasons for this are as follows:
Main reasons for phlegm congestion
Infections: When you have a cold, flu, sinusitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia, the body produces more phlegm.
Allergies: Dust, pollen, pet dander, or air pollution in the air irritate the lungs and cause phlegm to build up.
Smoking: Smoking damages the airways in the lungs and reduces the body’s ability to expel phlegm. This causes phlegm to build up.
Asthma: People with asthma, a condition that causes inflammation in the airways, are more likely to have a lot of mucus.
Humidity: Very dry weather thickens the mucus in the lungs and makes it difficult to expel.
Acid reflux (GERD): When stomach acid flows back up into the throat, it can feel like there is a lump in the throat.
Dietary habits: In some people, eating dairy products has been shown to increase the amount of mucus.
