2024-08-27 14:00:38
Excess mucus in the airways may be due to the common cold, lung infections, or environmental factors. Know the reasons why you light up a lot and when it is a sign of anxiety.
The production of mucus in the respiratory system is progressive, regular and important. Most of the time, we don’t even notice them, because they are excreted through coughing or the digestive system. However, some conditions can lead to excessive swelling, since they have a thick consistency known as phlegm.
When the body interprets that there is an external threat, such as certain viruses, fungi or bacteria, the immune system suppresses more than normal. It does this through the epithelium, the tissue that lines the inside of the respiratory tract.
So, is phlegm a protective secret? That’s right, they have antibodies that act as a protective barrier against these threats. If they are too visible or take on a green color, they can be a symptom of an infection or respond to other reasons that are useful to know. Below, we explain the most common reasons why phlegm appears, in addition to knowing when you should consult a doctor or specialist.
Cold temperatures
One of the most common reasons for the appearance of phlegm is due to inflammation of the mucous membranes. It occurs when various pathogens, such as rhinoviruses, cause an infection in the upper respiratory tract. It is one of those more frequent infections in humans, which results in mild fever.
Faced with danger, the glands are enlarged production and thickness of mucuswhich causes its accumulation in the throat or nose. This often leads to other annoying symptoms, such as throat clearing, runny nose, burning, and coughing.
More serious respiratory infections
More serious conditions that affect the lungs and airways can cause phlegm in the throat. The body increases production to prevent the progression of the infection. Mucus captures foreign particles and expels them through coughing to eliminate the risk.
One way to identify if the phlegm corresponds to this type of disease is its color.. When they get a green color, it means that the number of dead white blood cells is high. Therefore, it is very likely that they were created to deal with an infection such as the following:
If phlegm—also called sputum—continues for several days, consult a doctor to diagnose the condition.
Asthma
One of the symptoms of asthma, in addition to difficulty breathing, wheezing or coughing, is the accumulation of phlegm. It is caused by narrowing of the airways, which can increase mucus production. The causes for an asthma attack are various, such as dust in the environment, mites, weather and cold.
Allergy
Various allergens, such as dust or pollen, cause throat irritation, sneezing or hoarseness. It is the body’s response to possible threats mucus production to quickly eliminate pollen spores and other agents.
Because of this, phlegm production often accompanies allergies. You can prevent them by avoiding exposure to allergens. To combat them, there are home remedies that promote symptom relief.
Smoking
Long-term smoking, whether through regular cigarettes, electronic or passive cigarettes, cause functional damage to the airways. This results in changes in mucociliary clearance, a process where cilia (hair-like structures with small hairs) sweep mucus from the small tracts towards the pharynx. The result is a bigger problem to clean the stomachwith external substances in it, which promotes its accumulation in the respiratory tract.
Also, the presence of tobacco smoke increases mucus production, throat clearing and cough, common symptoms of smokers. The only solution to improve this condition is to stop smoking.
acid reflux
The origin of phlegm in the throat can also be stomach. When the contents of the stomach return to the esophagus with stomach acids, the area becomes irritated and causes excessive bloating. Gastroesophageal reflux can occur in a specific situation, caused by the ingestion of sausages, coffee or alcohol, or it can be a common condition.
In both cases, some home remedies are recommended to eliminate acid reflux, such as drinking plenty of water to remove phlegm or consuming juices, infusions and broths. It is also recommended to avoid foods that can cause reflux, such as refined flours, fried foods and spicy foods.
Cold weather and dry air
Not all causes are from infections or diseases. There are also external and environmental factors that affect some people more than others. For example, breathe cold air It dries up the nasal passages and throatwhich causes an increase in mucus to cool the area.
This usually occurs in winter due to contact with cold weather and the possibility of viral infections, as well as the use of heaters and air conditioners.
Eating some foods
Certain foods and drinks are associated with increased mucus production. For example, red meat and oils of animal origin or dairy products such as cheese, milk and milk. Drinks that promote dryness, including those with high sugar or alcohol, can also contribute to phlegm. It is advisable to reduce its presence in food to avoid excessive mucus generation.
On the other hand, there are certain foods that can help expel phlegm, such as cinnamon, garlic, onions and olive oil. Among the fruits, guava, orange, kiwi and pomegranate are recommended.
Detached septum
A deviated septum is when the wall between the nostrils is damaged or twisted. Such condition occurs due to developmental delay or due to specific trauma. In any case, nasal congestion and accumulation of mucus can occur due to the great difficulty of pumping it.
When to see a doctor for phlegm in the throat?
The presence of excessive mucus may be a normal defense response to external threats. However, Attention should be paid when it lasts more than a week and/or is accompanied by some of these symptoms.:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- headache
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- A thick stomach
The thickness and color of phlegm is representative of what the immune system is trying to get out of the body, so paying attention to this behavior can be an indication of its cause. Green and yellow tones respond to infections, whites indicate a possible obstruction or infection. For their part, black and brown can be due to environmental factors, such as smoke inhalation, or smoking.
Pink or red color requires more attention. It is possible that they are blood stains caused by the repair work of blowing the nose or that they come from more serious diseases, such as tuberculosis. Consult a doctor if you notice this color in your phlegm.
Pay attention to the causes that generate phlegm in order to eliminate them
Reasons why mucus becomes thick and abundant range from possible respiratory infections to stomach problems. Although phlegm is not a cause for alarm, it is important to pay attention to its color, consistency, and the appearance of other symptoms. This will allow you to know what to do and take steps to expel them.
If you notice an unusual color, excessive thickness, or if they are accompanied by a headache, chest pain, or fever, contact a doctor.. The use of medications may be needed to reduce the infection.
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