The feeling of phlegm stuck in the throat, that there is mucus trapped in the throat, It is a frequent and very annoying thing that can lead to repeatedly coughing or clearing your throat to try to expel him and, consequently, to a throat irritation. It can be caused by a variety of factors, from allergies or gastroesophageal reflux disease to medication side effects or a simple cold.

Some changes in habits and natural remedies They can be helpful in reducing the chances of mucus getting stuck in the throat and relieving the symptoms it causes.

If the sensation of phlegm causes you to cough, these infusions can help you.

feeling of phlegm stuck in the throat: causes

He postnasal dripthat is, excess mucus in the nose that causes a trickle down the back of the throat, often due to a cold, allergy, or sinus infection It is the most common cause of this annoying sensation of having a flame trapped in the throat, but not the only one.

Other common causes include:

• Respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia They can also increase mucus production and cause the feeling that something is stuck in the throat.
• Some medications (such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors to treat high blood pressure) can cause, as a side effect, this sensation of mucus or phlegm in the throat.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)which occurs when stomach acid returns to the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth and stomach), causes irritation and increased mucus production in the throat. Avoiding foods that trigger it, eating large meals, and going to bed right after eating are some of the ways to relieve the symptoms it causes.
• Smoke It can irritate the airways and increase mucus production.
• Exposure to environmental irritantssuch as dust or pollution, can trigger excessive mucus production.
• The use of air conditioning units that are not well maintained can lead to a dispersion of microorganisms in the home that, together with the sudden changes in temperature generated by the use of the device, can favor alterations in the respiratory system that cause a sensation of phlegm in the throat.
• dehydration It can cause the mucus to become thicker and cause this feeling of something stuck in the throat.
• Difficulty swallowing correctly (dysphagia) also causes the feeling that something is stuck.

Sometimes throat clearing is not the result of mucus in the throat, but rather a response to a tic, spasm, or sudden, repetitive movements that the person cannot control.

feeling of phlegm stuck in the throat: home remedies

A good hydration (about 2 liters of water daily) is key so that the mucus is not thick and does not get stuck in the throat. It is also important avoid irritants such as tobacco smoke or chemical vapors that can irritate the respiratory tract.

Using a humidifierespecially when the weather is dry or the environment is very hot, can help keep mucus moister and prevent it from being sticky and difficult to remove.

Other natural measures to relieve the discomfort caused by phlegm stuck in the throat are:

• Gargle with warm salt water It is an effective remedy to soothe the throat and reduce irritation caused by mucus. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, gargle, and then spit it out.
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated (with a couple of pillows) helps the mucus pass and not stay stuck in the throat.
• make fumes It also helps to thin mucus and facilitate its expulsion. To do this, lean over a bowl of hot (but not boiling) water with a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. For a greater effect, you can add a few drops of eucalyptus or mint essential oil to the water.
• honey It has calming properties and you can add it to infusions or a glass of water and lemon juice to soothe an irritated throat.
• ginger It is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory. You can drink it as an infusion or add it to your dishes.
• Include spicy foods in the dietsuch as horseradish, wasabi or mustard, help make secretions more liquid and clear nasal congestion.

If the sensation of phlegm stuck in your throat is persistent, very bothersome, or accompanied by other symptoms (such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your mucus), it is essential go to the doctor to establish the most appropriate diagnosis and treatment.