Ailments like colds, sneezing, and coughs can be quite unpleasant. One of the most frustrating aspects of catching a cold is dealing with the persistent mucus that stubbornly lingers in the throat and chest for what feels like an eternity.
Although this mucus eventually clears up, it can significantly disrupt your daily routine, resulting in ongoing bouts of coughing and hindering your breathing, especially during physical activities. This can ultimately diminish the quality of your life. The key question remains – what steps can be taken to address this issue? Fortunately, there are numerous remedies that you can utilize at home to help clear mucus and improve breathing.
Methods to Eliminate Phlegm and Mucus in Chest and Throat at Home
Mucus is a viscous substance produced by the mucous membranes lining our respiratory system, encompassing the nasal passages, throat, and lungs. It plays a crucial role in our bodies by capturing dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles, thereby assisting in keeping our airways clear and moist. (1)
Nevertheless, excessive mucus production or an accumulation of phlegm in the chest and throat can be highly irksome. It may lead to breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, throat irritation, and a sensation of congestion. Some of the common culprits behind mucus buildup include common colds, allergies, respiratory infections, smoking, and exposure to irritants.
Approaches to Ease Phlegm and Mucus at Home
Instead of resorting to over-the-counter medications and pharmaceuticals immediately to alleviate your mucus, consider trying out these natural strategies first. They are safe, simple to implement, and are conveniently accessible for use at your residence.
1. Maintain Adequate Hydration
Consuming generous amounts of fluids throughout the day helps to dilute the mucus, facilitating its expulsion. Opt for water, herbal teas, warm broths, and soups as ideal choices.
2. Perform Salt Water Gargling
Blend half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle with this solution multiple times a day. This practice aids in diminishing mucus in the throat and assuaging irritation. (2) When gargling with salt water, adhere to the following steps:
Mix one cup of water with 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon of salt. Opt for warm water as it accelerates salt dissolution. Additionally, consider using filtered or bottled water devoid of irritating chlorine.
Sip a small portion of the mixture and slightly tilt your head backwards.
Allow the mixture to flow into your throat without ingesting it.
Gently expel air from your lungs to gargle for a duration of 30 to 60 seconds, then spit out the water.
Repeat as necessary.