Although the flushing process does help thin out mucus and remove bacteria and allergens, it can also wash away some of the mucous membrane and other protective tissue that keeps you from getting sick.
It may also help to give yourself a dose of heat and steam. Try breathing through a warm washcloth, or turning on the shower and inhaling the steam, which can make your mucus thinner and easier to clear. But you can try the strategies and medications suggested above if you want to prevent excess mucus or address thick mucus. If mucus is not cleared, it can create conditions for infection and inflammation. Your body makes a lot of mucus — about 1.
Excess mucus may be a symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD. There are two main types of COPD — emphysema and chronic bronchitis — and many people with this condition have both. Very thick mucus can be a sign of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the cells that produce mucus and other substances. With cystic fibrosis, mucus can grow thick enough to clog your lungs and block your digestive system. American Lung Association.
Originally founded to fight tuberculosis , this nonprofit organization has been a trusted source of information on lung health and conditions that affect the lungs since National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Visit this government site for more information on COPD and other respiratory conditions.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Founded in , this organization funds research into the condition, and its website has a wealth of information for those living with or taking care of someone with cystic fibrosis. References Marvels of Mucus and Phlegm.
NIH News in Health. My Snot Is Green. Penn Medicine Health and Wellness. March 4, Cleveland Clinic. January 25, Food and Drug Administration.
January 24, Public Drinking Water Systems. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. September 28, Airway Mucus Function and Dysfunction. New England Journal of Medicine. December February October 2, Cystic Fibrosis. Mayo Clinic.
March 14, A study examined the link between phlegm color and the presence of bacteria. The researchers found that green or yellow phlegm is more likely to contain bacteria than clear or white mucus. Brown or black mucus is more common in people who smoke or have lung disease. Pink or rusty phlegm that contains blood can indicate the presence of a serious medical issue, such as heart failure.
Lung cancer does not typically produce symptoms until it spreads. However, some people may experience early symptoms. Lung cancer is rare, and many of its symptoms are similar to those of other conditions, such as a lung infection. Some common lung cancer symptoms include:. A doctor may ask the individual about the duration of their symptoms and whether there are any triggers. They might also ask about the color or texture of the phlegm. The doctor will check for any allergies or respiratory conditions, such as asthma.
If they suspect that GERD is the cause, they may perform an endoscopy. Most upper respiratory infections will go away on their own. Over-the-counter decongestants and other products can help with some of the symptoms. Infections that affect the lower respiratory tract may require treatment from a doctor.
A doctor might recommend the following treatments for COPD:. In most cases of asthma, people can effectively manage their symptoms with medication, such as corticosteroid inhalers. Heart failure is a serious condition that requires immediate medical treatment. Anyone with a persistent cough should see a doctor for a diagnosis. In many cases, the cause will not be serious, but it might still require treatment. Most causes of coughing up phlegm are not serious. However, more severe conditions, such as COPD or heart failure, require lifelong treatment.
Coughing up phlegm is usually not a cause for concern. For example, GERD and the common cold are responsible for many cases of coughing up phlegm. However, in some cases, this symptom might indicate an undiagnosed condition. Poststreptococcal disorder is a group of autoimmune disorders that occur after an infection with the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes. Learn the causes,.
Marshmallows are primarily made of sugar, water, and gelatin, and may not do much for a sore throat. Marshmallow root could, though. It can be hard to tell if you have a sore throat from a virus, or strep throat, which is most often caused by a bacterial infection. The combination of sore throat and chest pain could be a sign of asthma, GERD, lung cancer, or another underlying condition. Learn more about these…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.
Medically reviewed by Cameron White, M. Causes Treatment Mucus vs. What causes overproduction of mucus in your throat? What can you do about an overproduction of mucus in your throat? Read this next. Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, M.
Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, M.
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