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Phlegm occurs when mucus accumulates in the nose, throat, or chest due to inflammation of the mucous membranes. This buildup is the immune system's way of responding to infection. The causes of phlegm vary widely but can often be managed at home. Ingredients like saline nasal rinses and cold water can help combat phlegm. If home remedies don’t work, seeking medical treatment is advisable. A doctor can help identify underlying causes and prevent recurring phlegm.
Steps
Removing Phlegm at Home
Drink plenty of cold or warm water. Dehydration can worsen phlegm. Drinking water throughout the day helps thin the mucus in your throat, easing symptoms. Opt for cold water as it soothes the throat and reduces irritation.
- Water can alleviate symptoms like itching, which often triggers the urge to clear your throat. Clearing your throat can actually worsen phlegm, so sip water whenever you feel the need.
- Carry a cold water bottle with you at all times. This way, you can quickly take a sip when you feel the urge to clear your throat.
- Bring a water bottle to school or work. Make sure to drink water with meals.
Use saline solution for nasal irrigation. Saline solution can be purchased at most pharmacies or obtained from a doctor’s office. Alternatively, you can make it at home by mixing a teaspoon of salt into 480 ml of water. Boil the mixture, let it cool, and use it to rinse your nose.
- Typically, a bulb syringe is used to draw the saline solution. Insert the tip into your nostril and gently squeeze the bulb to release the solution.
- Inhale through your mouth, allowing the saline to flow out of the opposite nostril. Blow your nose to remove any remaining solution.
- This method may not always work. If symptoms worsen after using a nasal spray, consult your doctor about alternative treatments.
Try steam inhalation. Boil water and inhale the steam to help thin mucus in the back of your throat. You can add a small amount of menthol or eucalyptus oil to the water. Be careful not to place your face too close to the pot to avoid burns.
- Do not use this method for young children.
Experiment with oil pulling using coconut oil. Oil pulling with coconut oil is one of the most effective ways to remove phlegm. Take a tablespoon of coconut oil, swish it around your mouth for 10-15 minutes, then spit it out. Repeat this once daily.
Gargle with saltwater. Dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of 240 ml water. Use the solution to gargle for a few seconds, then spit it into the sink. This helps alleviate symptoms caused by phlegm.
Seek medical treatment
Consult a pharmacist about over-the-counter medications. Certain over-the-counter drugs can help alleviate phlegm. Decongestants, antihistamines, and steroid nasal sprays may be beneficial if home remedies fail to reduce phlegm.
- Always consult a pharmacist before using over-the-counter medications, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on other medications. Some drugs may not be safe for everyone.
- Consider trying Mucinex to thin mucus. Ensure you drink plenty of water while taking this medication.
Visit a doctor in certain cases. Typically, phlegm resolves on its own without treatment. However, persistent phlegm can disrupt daily life. If you experience severe phlegm that doesn’t respond to treatment, consult a doctor. There may be an underlying health issue that needs attention.
Screen and treat underlying health conditions. Phlegm can result from issues like nasal polyps or allergies. If these are suspected, your doctor may refer you to a specialist for evaluation.
- You might need to undergo allergy testing to identify potential triggers.
- Treatment depends on the cause. For example, nasal polyps can be managed with steroid nasal sprays.
Ask your doctor about self-care strategies. Sometimes, the cause of chronic phlegm remains unidentified. If no specific cause is found, your doctor may recommend tailored self-care steps. Discuss these steps in detail and clarify any doubts. Always follow your doctor’s guidance to manage phlegm effectively.
Prevent phlegm from recurring
Avoid triggers that worsen symptoms. Phlegm, especially allergy-induced phlegm, can be aggravated by environmental factors. Try to minimize exposure to common triggers that cause phlegm buildup.
- If you know you’re allergic to specific allergens, such as pollen, limit your exposure to them throughout the day.
- Areas with heavy smoke can irritate phlegm, so avoid places where smoke tends to accumulate.
Avoid air conditioners and heaters. Air conditioners and heaters often dry out the air, worsening phlegm or causing it to return after it subsides. Try to stay away from areas with these appliances.
- If your workplace uses air conditioning or heating, request to sit farther away from the source to avoid triggering phlegm.
Increase indoor humidity levels. Dry air can make you more prone to phlegm. Consider purchasing a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home. This can help prevent phlegm from recurring.
- Humidifiers can be bought online or at retail stores.
