Home Remedies to Clear Mucus and Phlegm | Chest Infection | Cough

Mucus lubricates, filters and protects the lungs by trapping allergens and viruses before they enter the lungs. But you can have too much mucus. It can accumulate in your throat and airways and be uncomfortable causing a constant cough and throat clearing. In this video I will share some advice but speak with your GP or pharmacist before starting or trying any of the techniques recommended in this video. Some of the most common causes of excess mucus production are a post nasal drip. This occurs when drainage from the nose travels down and accumulates in the back of the throat. Reflux. This occurs when stomach acid moves upwards into your throat. Food allergies and intolerances. Having an allergy or intolerance to certain foods can trigger excess mucus production. Dairy, wheat and gluten are the most common triggers. Short lasting infections like the common cold or other respiratory infections often increase mucus production. And chronic conditions such as chronic bronchitis can also cause mucus overproduction. Visit your doctor if you believe you may be suffering from any of the conditions we've just mentioned. Addressing the underlying cause of excessive mucus production is the most important thing to do. Here are some other things you could try. Make sure you're hydrated. Dehydration makes mucus thicker and harder to clear. Use steam from a shower, bath or bowl of hot water to help loosen secretions in the airways. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on medications such as expectorants that help to thin and loosen mucus. A natural home remedy is gargling warm salt water. Just add a teaspoon of salt to some warm water and gargle for three seconds at a time. Do not drink the salt water. Check your environment. A smoky fire, perfume, pets, smoking and vaping can all irritate airways. Some people find that spices like cayenne pepper help to reduce and clear mucus. As we said at the start of this video, make sure you visit your doctor if you're experiencing excess mucus production and difficulty clearing your throat. Otherwise your local pharmacist will probably be able to assist you. I hope you found the content of this video helpful. Showing on the screen here are some other related videos which you may find helpful. Thank you for watching. Please like and subscribe and share this video with anybody who you think may find it helpful.