Phlegm and mucus – the same thing?
You usually find phlegm in the back of your throat or in your lungs. It originates from the lower respiratory tract. On the other hand, mucus is usually found on the nasal mucosa. It acts as a filter to protect the lungs during inhalation. To remove it, you just need to blow your nose. However, the phlegm in the throat is thick and sticky. It is usually noticed when coughing. An excess of this secretion can be a symptom of respiratory diseases such as bronchitis.
How mucus is formed
Our body produces mucus and phlegm to stay healthy. It’s a protective, slippery substance that forms in your throat, sinuses, and lungs. This substance protects your body’s cells and helps trap irritants and bacteria. However, if bacteria or viruses overcome your body’s natural defenses, more phlegm is produced. For most people, excessive mucus and phlegm will clear up without any problems. However, in some cases, the bronchi become filled with mucus, making the lungs vulnerable to infection. These conditions are bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis. Either way, when you cough, your body needs to get rid of this substance.
In natural amounts, mucus acts as a natural filter for bacteria. Your lungs are very vulnerable to bacteria and infections. Because the lungs are internal organs, the oxygen you breathe goes directly to the lungs. Learn more about how to improve lung health.
How to remove mucus from the lungs
Although unpleasant, the mucus is safe to swallow. Because your body can safely reabsorb it. However, phlegm must be removed from the body. Advice from health workers – cough. Because it will contain viruses and dead bacteria. When you cough, it helps your body rid itself of infection. Effective cough aids are also available, such as POWERbreathe’s Shaker Mucus Clearing Device.
Can phlegm cause a cough?
Discharge will be more of a problem at night. It is simply due to gravity. This discharge will hit the chest hard. It causes coughing. You can reduce this by elevating your sleeping position. Just prop yourself up with a pillow. In fact, coughing is your body’s natural way of getting rid of phlegm. It will help you get better.
When to see a doctor?
The National Health Service recommends immediate medical attention if you cough up blood. They also recommend seeing a GP if:
your cough lasts more than 3 weeks (persistent cough)
your cough gets worse quickly
your chest hurts
You are losing weight for no reason
Swelling of your neck and pain in the side (swollen glands)
breathing becomes more difficult
Your immune system is weak due to diabetes or chemotherapy
Sputum is broken down with or without medication
Expectorants may be given to increase bronchial secretions. These are for cough relief. But expectorants are drugs. But the POWERbreathe shaker is an effective drug-free alternative.
Natural remedies for phlegm
A natural way to get rid of phlegm in your throat and lungs is to use the POWERbreathe shaker. This drug-free hand-held device “shakes” the mucus in the chest to make it more mobile. Shaking breaks up secretions and makes expectoration easier.
How to get rid of phlegm naturally
There is a weighted ball inside the vibrator. When breathing through the device, the balloon rises and then falls again under its own weight. It happens quickly and feels like a vibration. This vibration and gentle resistance expels and thins the phlegm. Then you can push it out by coughing.