Having excessive phlegm or mucus in the throat is a common symptom that many people experience. Phlegm is a thick, sticky substance produced by the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, throat, bronchi, and lungs. It plays an important role in trapping irritants like dust, bacteria, and viruses before they enter the lungs. However, when too much phlegm accumulates in the throat it can cause discomfort and the sensation of a lump in the throat. So what causes excessive phlegm buildup and how can it be treated?
What is Phlegm?
Phlegm, also known as mucus or sputum, is made up of mucins, water, inorganic salts, immunoglobulins, and other soluble proteins. The main job of phlegm is to trap irritants and pathogens before they reach the delicate tissues of the lungs where they could potentially cause harm. Having small amounts of phlegm in the throat is normal, but excess phlegm production can indicate an underlying problem.
Functions of Phlegm
- Traps irritants and pathogens
- Moistens and protects mucous membranes
- Contains antibodies and antimicrobial agents
- Clears excess mucus from airways through coughing or swallowing
Causes of Excessive Phlegm in the Throat
There are several possible causes for increased phlegm buildup in the throat:
Infection
Infections that cause inflammation of the mucous membranes can stimulate overproduction of phlegm. Common culprits include:
- Common cold
- Flu
- Sinusitis
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Tonsillitis
During an infection, phlegm production ramps up to help clear bacteria, viruses, and infected cells from the body.
Allergies
Allergic reactions to irritants like pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold can trigger phlegm overproduction. The phlegm tries to trap the allergens before they cause an immune reaction.
Irritants
Exposure to irritants in the air like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemicals can increase phlegm production. Phlegm attempts to catch the irritants before they damage the lungs.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus it can stimulate phlegm production. The phlegm works to protect the throat lining from erosion by stomach acid.
Lung disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, pneumonia, and other lung diseases often involve increased phlegm production. Excess phlegm can collect in the throat, especially when lying down.
Risk Factors
There are some factors that can make people more prone to excessive phlegm buildup in the throat:
- Smoking – irritates respiratory tract
- Viral/bacterial infections
- Allergies
- Exposure to irritants or pollution
- Chronic lung disease
- Swallowing disorders
- Pregnancy – hormones increase mucus
- Weather changes
- Strenuous exercise
- Stress and anxiety
- Acid reflux
- Post-nasal drip
- Cystic fibrosis – excess mucus production
- Rhinitis – inflammation of nasal passages
Symptoms
Excess phlegm in the throat can cause various symptoms including:
- Frequent throat clearing
- Coughing up phlegm/mucus
- Feeling of mucus dripping down the throat (post-nasal drip)
- Sore throat
- Hoarse, raspy voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sensation of a lump in the throat
- Gagging or choking on mucus
- Congestion
- Runny nose
- Frequent need to clear the throat
Complications
While phlegm in the throat is usually just an annoyance, excessive phlegm buildup can potentially lead to complications including:
- Choking – large amounts of phlegm can obstruct the airways
- Breathing problems – phlegm can block breathing, especially in those with COPD or asthma
- Reduced appetite – difficulty swallowing may lead to poor nutrition
- Sleep apnea – phlegm obstruction worsens sleep apnea
- Bacterial infection – stale phlegm allows bacteria to grow, increasing infection risk
- Vocal cord strain – frequent throat clearing damages vocal cords
- Social isolation – embarrassment about excessive phlegm and throat clearing
Seeking treatment can help prevent potential complications of chronic excessive phlegm.
Diagnosis
To determine the cause of excessive phlegm production, the doctor will perform a full medical history and physical exam. They may ask questions like:
- How long have you had increased phlegm?
- Do you have any other symptoms?
- Have you been exposed to irritants or allergens?
- Do you have a history of lung disease?
- Are you taking any medications?
The physical exam will involve checking vital signs, listening to the lungs with a stethoscope, and palpating the neck to feel for enlarged lymph nodes or swelling. Additional diagnostic tests may include:
- Chest x-ray
- Sputum culture
- Pulmonary function tests
- Allergy testing
- Imaging – CT scan, MRI
- Laryngoscopy – visual exam of vocal cords and throat
- pH monitoring – checks for acid reflux
These tests help identify any underlying infection, inflammation, allergies, or other causes so that proper treatment can be initiated.
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the excess phlegm. Some options may include:
Medications
- Cough suppressants – codeine, dextromethorphan
- Expectorants – guaifenesin; loosen phlegm
- Mucolytics – N-acetylcysteine; thin mucus
- Antihistamines – for allergies
- Decongestants – pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine
- Antibiotics – for bacterial infections
- Inhaled steroids – reduce inflammation in lung conditions
- Proton pump inhibitors – reduce stomach acid reflux
Home Care
- Drink plenty of fluids to thin secretions
- Use a humidifier
- Do nasal irrigation with salt water
- Avoid irritants like smoke
- Gargle with warm salt water
- Use lozenges to soothe throat
- Get adequate rest
For chronic phlegm, make lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, exercising, and managing stress. See a doctor if symptoms persist despite home treatments.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a doctor if you experience:
- Phlegm lasts longer than 10 days
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Blood in phlegm
- Fever over 101 F
- Severe pain or pressure in chest
- Wheezing or chest tightness
- Weight loss, appetite changes
- Night sweats
Seeking prompt medical treatment can help identify and manage any serious conditions before they worsen.
Prevention
You can reduce excess phlegm and mucus buildup by:
- Avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke
- Treating allergies
- Managing acid reflux
- Staying hydrated
- Using a humidifier
- Getting pneumococcal and flu vaccines
- Practicing good hygiene
- Treating sinus infections promptly
Implementing healthy lifestyle habits like exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can also help minimize excess phlegm production.
Conclusion
Phlegm production increases when the body is fighting an infection or reacting to an irritant. While small amounts of phlegm in the throat are normal, excess phlegm can cause discomfort and symptoms like throat clearing, coughing, congestion, and hoarseness. Underlying causes range from infections and allergies to lung diseases and acid reflux. Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause and may involve medications, home remedies, and lifestyle changes. Preventing excess phlegm is possible by avoiding triggers and maintaining healthy habits. See a doctor if phlegm persists for over 10 days or you experience other concerning symptoms. Treating the reasons for increased mucus production can help restore throat comfort and respiratory function.