Mucus buildup in the throat is a common issue that can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. It often leads to symptoms such as persistent coughing, frequent throat clearing, and a sensation of having a lump in the throat. While mucus serves an important function in trapping and clearing out dust, bacteria, and other particles from the respiratory tract, excessive or thick mucus can be bothersome. In this article you will learn how to get mucus out of throat or rather say, how to clear mucus from throat at home.
Understanding the signs of mucus buildup and knowing effective methods to manage and expel it can significantly improve your comfort and overall respiratory health. Whether caused by allergies, infections, or environmental factors, there are various strategies you can employ to alleviate mucus-related symptoms.
Table of Contents:
- What is Mucus?
- What Causes Mucus Overproduction?
- How to Get Mucus Out of Your Throat
- Is overproduction of mucus in throat a sign of a serious condition?
- FAQs about Clearing Mucus from Your Throat
- What are the common signs that you have mucus in your throat?
- Why does mucus build up in the throat?
- How can I naturally get rid of mucus in my throat?
- Are there over-the-counter remedies for mucus in the throat?
- When should I see a doctor about mucus in my throat?
- How does hydration affect mucus production?
- Can diet affect mucus production in the throat?
- What role does posture play in clearing mucus from the throat?
- Are there any exercises to help clear mucus from the throat?
- How does steam inhalation help with mucus in the throat?
What is Mucus?
Mucus is a sign of an underlying infection and should not be ignored. It is most noticeable when a person is ill or has a chronic medical condition. Even when a person is ill, mucus forms in some parts of the body. It prevents these regions from drying out and helps the body defend itself against foreign objects like viruses and bacteria.
Mucus has an important role in your body. It’s made by cells in your mouth, throat, nose and sinuses. Its slippery consistency helps protect and moisturize, and traps potential irritants.
What Causes Mucus Overproduction?
Your body can go into overdrive creating mucus when you have:
Smoking or exposure to an irritant in the air may cause you to produce more mucus than usual. If the mucus is clear, you might have allergies. Other conditions that could cause excess mucus include bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis.
Dr. Mclee Tembo says that while dietary allergens can also result in excessive mucus or phlegm, it can be more difficult to identify them from this symptom alone.
Your mucus tends to be light and may go unnoticed if you’re healthy. However, when you’re ill, your mucus can thicken and become crusty. And you may not notice phlegm until you cough it up, which can be a symptom of pneumonia or bronchitis.
You may be concerned about the color of your mucus and phlegm, too, whether it’s yellow or green. But the color doesn’t necessarily mean you have an infection.
How to Get Mucus Out of Your Throat
How to get rid of excess mucus: Try the following if your mucus and phlegm issues are persistent. If your mucus and phlegm issue develops into a post-nasal leak, these treatments can also assist.
1. Stay hydrated
Fluids will help thin out the mucus, preventing it from accumulating in your throat. Drink plenty of water, tea, and other beverages to ensure you’re meeting your daily water requirements. Snack on water-containing foods, such as soup or fruit.
Women require approximately 11.5 cups (2.7 L) of water per day, while men require approximately 15.5 cups (3.7 L) per day. To help relieve phlegm, drink hot fluids such as warm water, tea, or cider. The heat will soften and thin the mucus, allowing it to drain more easily. This aids in the clearing of your throat.
“A good rule of thumb is to drink enough water to make your urine pale,” Dr. Mclee Tembo advises.
2. Gargle with salt water
Gargling with salt water helps to thin mucus and clear the throat. A warm glass of water should contain 2 to 3 tablespoons of salt. Take a sip of salt water and gargle for a few seconds with your head tilted back while keeping the water on your throat. Then repeat the process of spitting out the water. You can repeat this process as often as necessary throughout the day, roughly every two to three hours. This at-home remedy may even help to prevent upper respiratory tract infections.
3. Use a humidifier
This can help your body moisturize your throat and nasal passages and may help you reduce mucus and phlegm production. Opt for a cool-mist humidifier and make sure you clean it regularly per its directions.
4. Drink peppermint tea
Peppermint tea contains menthol, an essential oil that can alleviate cold and flu symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, runny nose, stuffy nose, and headache. This tea also has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that aid the body in fighting colds and recovering faster.
5. Use eucalyptus
Whether it’s a eucalyptus balm or essential oil in a diffuser, the scent of eucalyptus can help loosen mucus in your chest.
6. Inhale the steam from a hot water bowl
Inhaling steam made from lightly salted water and plant essential oils like eucalyptus and rosemary will help keep your mucus membranes moisturized. To clear your nasal passages, you can also dab a few drops of these essential oils on a handkerchief and take a deep breath.
7. Use over-the-counter medication
Decongestants, whether taken orally or applied topically, can help reduce the swelling in your nose. There are also expectorants like guaifenesin (like Mucinex®) that help thin mucus.
Dr. Mclee Tembo advises people who are worried about allergens to keep in mind that the testing is simple and uncomplicated to do. You could also attempt over-the-counter allergy medicines to see if they can help.
If you have doubts, talk to your regular doctor or an otolaryngologist about your issue. They can delve deeper into your specific symptoms and medical background to find answers.
8. Turmeric
Unquestionably, turmeric is a nutrient. It lowers inflammation, soothes pain, and boosts the immune system—exactly what the doctor prescribed!
“Add a scant teaspoon of honey, half a teaspoon each of black pepper and turmeric, to a glass of hot non-dairy milk. Dr. Mclee Tembo advises consuming this delectable mixture every day until the mucus clears up.”
Don’t use cow’s milk in this recipe because dairy products can thicken mucus, which is the opposite of what you want. You can also try a non-dairy turmeric tea.
9. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
When either substance is consumed in excess, a person becomes exhausted. When mucus and phlegm are an issue, drink lots of warm, caffeine-free drinks.
Is overproduction of mucus in throat a sign of a serious condition?
If the overproduction of mucus in throat causes you discomfort, you might be concerned that it indicates a more severe issue. According to Dr. Mclee Tembo, mucus isn’t typically a symptom to worry about if it’s the only symptom you have.
“Worrisome signs are mucus accompanied by fevers, chills and night sweats, especially if you also experience weight loss, nasal obstruction or intermittent nose bleeds for more than two weeks,” he says, “this can be a symptom of bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, or cystic fibrosis.” This article above expounds all you need to know about how to clear mucus from throat at home.
FAQs about Clearing Mucus from Your Throat
This FAQ section provides detailed answers to common questions about identifying and clearing mucus from the throat, offering both natural remedies and when to seek medical attention.
What are the common signs that you have mucus in your throat?
Common signs of mucus in the throat include a persistent cough, frequent throat clearing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, hoarseness, and a runny nose. You might also experience difficulty swallowing or feel like there is something stuck in your throat.
Why does mucus build up in the throat?
Mucus can build up in the throat due to various reasons, including respiratory infections, allergies, acid reflux, dehydration, or exposure to irritants like smoke or pollution. It can also be a symptom of chronic conditions like sinusitis or bronchitis.
How can I naturally get rid of mucus in my throat?
To naturally get rid of mucus, you can stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, use a humidifier to moisten the air, gargle with salt water, and consume warm fluids like herbal teas. Additionally, inhaling steam, using saline nasal sprays, and eating spicy foods can help clear mucus.
Are there over-the-counter remedies for mucus in the throat?
Yes, over-the-counter remedies such as expectorants (e.g., guaifenesin) can help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel. Decongestants and antihistamines may also be useful if allergies are causing the mucus buildup.
When should I see a doctor about mucus in my throat?
You should see a doctor if mucus in your throat persists for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by severe symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or high fever, or if you notice blood in the mucus. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.
How does hydration affect mucus production?
Staying well-hydrated helps thin mucus, making it less sticky and easier to expel. Drinking water, herbal teas, and other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages can keep your mucus membranes moist and reduce mucus buildup.
Can diet affect mucus production in the throat?
Yes, diet can impact mucus production. Dairy products, for some people, can thicken mucus. Eating spicy foods can help thin mucus, making it easier to clear. Additionally, foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and mucus production.
What role does posture play in clearing mucus from the throat?
Posture can influence mucus drainage. Keeping your head elevated, especially while sleeping, can prevent mucus from pooling in the throat. Practicing good posture during the day can also aid mucus drainage and reduce throat discomfort.
Are there any exercises to help clear mucus from the throat?
Yes, certain breathing exercises can help clear mucus. Deep breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and huff coughing (a gentle cough from deep within your lungs) can help mobilize and expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
How does steam inhalation help with mucus in the throat?
Steam inhalation helps by moistening the airways, thinning mucus, and making it easier to expel. You can inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or take a hot shower to achieve similar effects. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint can enhance the decongestant properties.
Also Read: 5 Ways to Treat Dry Nose