PHLEGM

PHLEGM

Phlegm (pronounced FLEM) is the secretions found in the throat including saliva, nasal secretions and sometimes acid secretions from the stomach. Phlegm becomes problematic if it interrupts voice production, breathing or swallowing. Too much phlegm may cause a “wet” or “gurgly” voice, or even difficulty swallowing. Increased amount of phlegm may cause one to clear his or her throat out often and repeatedly. Phlegm may also be a reason that individuals wake up at night. Phlegm normally thin in nature; however when it becomes thick it becomes difficult to tolerate. When there is not enough phlegm present that may become problematic as well.

Phlegm is mostly saliva, which is made by the salivary glands. There are four major salivary glands – two parotid glands located in front of the ears, and two submandibular glands located below the mandible or jaw bone. These four glands produce the majority of saliva. Sublingual glands, located below the tongue and minor salivary glands located throughout the mouth, throat and even the nose provide small contributions to the amount of saliva.

There are disorders where patients may complain of decreased secretions such as Sjogren’s syndrome. This is an autoimmune process in which individuals have dry eyes and dry mouth. Medications may also cause patients to complain of dry mouth as well. Finally, radiation used to treat head and neck cancer may cause salivary glands to produce less saliva that is often thick in quality.

Nasal secretions also contribute to phlegm. These secretions originate from the mucosa, or internal lining of the nose. For patients with allergic symptoms increased nasal secretions may drain into the throat, causing “too much phlegm”.

Acid reflux from the stomach also may contribute to phlegm. Acidic contents from the stomach may reflux, or travel backwards into the esophagus and throat. Acid from the stomach may be very irritating to individuals, causing problems of difficulty swallowing, cough, and even burning sensations in the throat.

Control of phlegm can be challenging because, as listed above, there are many contributions. Stepwise approaches considering these causes of phlegm may be necessary.

Excess Mucus In The Throat.

Excess Mucus In The Throat – Causes And What Works Best

Though you may not be aware of it, the glands in your throat produce lots of mucus every day. Mucus, also known as phlegm, is essential for keeping your respiratory tract moist and healthy, and wards off infection. Excess mucus, however, can be unpleasant and bothersome and can cause a number of issues, including swallowing problems. Let’s take a look at what causes a build-up of mucus and some of the remedies that work best.

What Causes Excess Mucus In The Throat?

The stomach, nose, sinuses, and throat can all produce mucus, so getting a good diagnosis requires a medical examination. Possible causes of excess mucus can be food allergies, an acid reflux from the stomach, or an infection. The consistency of mucus in the throat also varies depending on what is going on in your body.



Common causes of too much mucus in the throat include a cold or flu, acute bronchitis, sinusitis or pneumonia. When mucus runs from the back of the nose down the throat after a meal, this could indicate an allergy. Causes can be mild, chronic, or severe (the onset of congestive heart failure), so be sure to seek medical advice.

Symptoms of mucus overproduction

Symptoms of excess mucus are coughing up phlegm, shortness of breath, or congestion in the throat. If the cause of mucus in the throat is a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, symptoms may be different. They may include fever, itchy eyes, a runny nose, headache, and difficulty breathing. Frequent throat-clearing may be a symptom of stomach problems, as mucus formation is a protective mechanism against acidity.

What foods help excess mucus?

Some food and drinks tend to lead to a build-up mucus, while others relieve it. Things that help include broccoli, berries, oranges and greens, fatty fish like trout, and olive oil. Cayenne pepper, ginger, lemon, and herbal teas are also beneficial. Things that can aggravate mucus build-up include milk, soy, cheese, yoghurt, caffeine, processed meat, and alcohol.

Further tips and remedies

Many people with excess mucus find that sleeping with their head raised on an extra pillow helps. This is because elevating the head and shoulders in this way relieves congested nasal passages. Quit smoking and stay away from irritants and polluted air whenever possible. Blow your nose, inhale steam, gargle with salt and warm water, raise the humidity, diffuse essential oils, drink warm liquids. Remember dehydration is also bad, so make sure to drink a lot of water.

If your doctor diagnoses an allergy, allergy medications may help address the problem of excess mucus. Be aware of your swallowing and if you think something unusual is happening get medical advice. Another tip is not to eat a large meal before going to bed as this can cause indigestion and the production of more mucus.

Fairview Adult Day Care Center in Brooklyn NY pays close attention to the symptoms and causes of excess mucus as part of its comprehensive medical care regime. We provide education and guidance as to how to manage health issues in the elderly as well as people with neurological conditions.