The phlegm is a thick sticky material that traps irritants, bacteria, and viruses. Phlegm is a protective substance for the body but long-lasting excessive amounts become bothersome to deal with. Several people struggle with persistent phlegm issues such as coughing up phlegm, long-term throat phlegm, and phlegm stuck in the chest for months. Learning about the causes of phlegm and its treatment will help you treat it better.
Multiple medical and home remedies are usefull for clearing your phlegm. This guide discusses the causes of phlegm, and how can you clear it. Read on.
What Causes Phlegm Buildup?
Phlegm buildup can result from various conditions, including:
- Colds, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia cause excess mucus production
- The presence of dust, pollen, and pet dander triggers inflammation in the airways that produces phlegm.
- Exposure to tobacco smoke generates damage to the lungs and it simultaneously enhances mucus production.
- Acid reflux leads to stomach acid irritation which results in phlegm symptoms.
- Conditions like asthma and COPD result in excessive mucus production
- Not drinking enough water leads to mucus becoming sticky which hinders its ability to drain from the body.
Why Phlegm Stays Stuck in the Throat for Months?
If mucus or cough persists for a long time, it could indicate a chronic condition such as:
- Post-nasal drip – Mucus drips from the sinuses into the throat.
- Chronic bronchitis – A long-term inflammation of the airways.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Stomach acid causes throat irritation and mucus buildup.
- Allergies or asthma – These conditions cause persistent mucus production.
How to Get Rid of Phlegm in the Chest?
Chest congestion can be frustrating, leading to a persistent phlegm cough. Here are some methods to loosen and expel phlegm:
1. Steam Therapy
Inhaling steam is a natural and effective way to loosen thick mucus, making it easier to cough up. Steam therapy works by introducing moisture into the airways, helping to thin out phlegm and reduce chest tightness.
Here’s how you can use steam therapy at home:
- Boil water and pour it into a bowl.
- Lean over the bowl, keeping your face at a comfortable distance.
- Cover your head with a towel to trap the steam.
- Inhale deeply for 10–15 minutes.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial for phlegm treatment in Delhi and elsewhere. Proper hydration helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel. Warm liquids work best because they soothe the throat while helping clear congestion.
Some of the best fluids for reducing phlegm in the chest include:
- Warm water with honey and lemon (helps break up mucus)
- Herbal teas (ginger, peppermint, licorice root)
- Chicken or vegetable broth (provides hydration and essential nutrients)
- Warm milk with turmeric (has anti-inflammatory properties)
3. Controlled Coughing
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear mucus from the lungs, but uncontrolled coughing can strain the throat and chest muscles. Controlled coughing techniques are more effective in removing phlegm stuck in the throat for months due to chronic respiratory conditions.
Here’s how to perform controlled coughing:
- Sit up straight and take a deep breath through your nose.
- Hold the breath for 3–5 seconds to allow air to reach deep into your lungs.
- Exhale forcefully while contracting your stomach muscles.
- Cough deeply from the chest, not the throat, to bring up mucus.
- Repeat as needed, but avoid excessive coughing, as it may cause throat irritation.
4. Chest Percussion (Clapping Therapy)
Chest percussion is a physical technique that helps loosen thick mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up. This method is commonly used in hospitals but can also be done at home.
How to do chest percussion:
- Lie down on your stomach or lean forward in a sitting position.
- Have a caregiver or family member cup their hands and gently tap on your back and sides.
- Focus on areas where mucus tends to accumulate (middle and lower lungs).
- Repeat for 5–10 minutes.
5. Use a Humidifier
A humidifier adds moisture to the air, preventing the mucus from becoming thick and sticky. This can be particularly helpful for those who wake up with phlegm stuck in the throat for months due to dry indoor air.
To maximize benefits:
- Keep the humidity level between 40–60% to prevent excessive moisture, which can encourage mold growth.
- Use distilled or filtered water in the humidifier to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Clean the humidifier regularly to ensure safe use.
6. Herbal Remedies and Natural Expectorants
Some herbs and natural ingredients have powerful mucus-thinning and cough-relieving properties. Many home remedies for cough with phlegm have been used for centuries to promote lung health.
- Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce throat irritation and loosen mucus. Try ginger tea with honey.
- Honey: A natural cough suppressant and antimicrobial agent. Take a spoonful before bed to soothe the throat.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which helps reduce mucus production and inflammation. Mix with warm milk for relief.
- Licorice root tea: Helps thin mucus and relax the airways.
When to See a Doctor, especially a Pulmonology specialist in Delhi?
While phlegm is usually harmless, certain symptoms require medical attention:
- Blood in Phlegm: If you notice blood in phlegm from the throat, seek medical advice immediately, as it may indicate a serious condition.
- Persistent Cough: If cough is stuck in the throat for months, it could be due to chronic conditions like acid reflux or lung disease.
- Severe Coughing: A phlegm cough that lasts more than three weeks may require evaluation by a pulmonologist in Delhi.
- Shortness of Breath: If mucus buildup is making it difficult to breathe, consult a pulmonology specialist.
Medical Treatments for cough
If home remedies are not enough, a chest doctor in Delhi recommend the following:
1. Expectorants
Medications like guaifenesin help thin mucus, making it easier to cough up.
2. Antihistamines
If allergies are causing phlegm, antihistamines can reduce mucus production.
3. Bronchodilators
For people with chronic lung diseases, bronchodilators help open airways and reduce mucus buildup.
4. Antibiotics
If a bacterial infection is causing excessive mucus, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Excess phlegm can be uncomfortable, but it is usually manageable with home remedies, hydration, and proper medical care. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, visiting a chest doctor in Delhi is essential to rule out serious conditions.For expert care, Primus Super Specialty Hospital provides comprehensive respiratory treatments, ensuring patients receive the best possible care in pulmonology hospital in Delhi. If you’re struggling with phlegm stuck in the throat for months or noticing blood in phlegm, consult a specialist to find the right treatment.
