Phlegm

phlegm like definition, fact about the phlegm, types, control measure etc by DR.ANJALATCHI

1. PHLEGM
INTRODUCTION :
The thick viscous substance secreted by the mucous membranes of the respiratory passages,
especially when produced in excessive quantities during a cold.
FACT ABOUT PHLEGM
 Phlegm (Greek:"inflammation, humour caused by heat") is a liquid secreted by
the mucous membranes of mammals.
 Its definition is limited to the mucus produced by the respiratory system, excluding that
from the nasal passages, and particularly that which is expelled by coughing (sputum).
 Phlegm is in essence a water-based gel consisting of glyco-proteins, Immuno-
globulins, lipids and other substances.
 Its composition varies depending on climate, genetics, and state of the immune system.
 Its color can vary from transparent to pale or dark yellow and green, from light to dark
brown, and even to dark grey depending on the constituents.
 Phlegm is a water based gel and is produced at your lower airways. It contains mucus
with bacteria, sloughed off inflammatory cells and debris. The immune system, climate,
and genetics can vary the composition of the phlegm.
 The color may vary from transparent to pale dark yellow or green. It can also change
from light to dark brown or dark grey.
 The color of the phlegm forecasts your health status. So here we go to check out what the
color of phlegm indicates.
WHITE OR GREY PHLEGM
This often indicates sinus congestion or upper respiratory tract infection. When there is
inflammation due to bacteria or virus. The phlegm from the sinus drips into your throat. This is
not the case when you are healthy.
Grey phlegm may indicate that the body is getting rid of tars or resins due to excessive smoking.
It may also be due to inhalation of smog and dust.
GREEN OR DARK YEL LOW PHLEGM
This indicates a sign of bacterial or viral infection and lower respiratory tract infection or sinus
infection. This green color is due the presence of neutrophils. They contain a green protein which
in large doses turns the phlegm into green color.

2. Researchers say that green or dark yellow phlegm does not always indicate an infection. This is
an interesting news which you ought to know. If you cough green or dark yellow phlegm, and
you have overall good health. There is no need for antibiotic treatment say the researchers.
BROWN PHLEGM
This coloration is due to excessive smoking. The body tries to cough back the resin, tar, and
other particulate matter. And this results in brown phlegm.
BLOODY PHLEGM
The presence of blood in phlegm is known as haemoptysis. It can signify bronchitis,
tuberculosis, cancer, pneumonia or pulmonary embolism. It would be in your best interest that
you seek medical attention.
PINK PHLEGM
This may indicate fluid in the lungs known as pulmonary edema. This phlegm can have streaks
of blood and have a frothy texture. It may signify underlying heart problems according to
UK’s National Health Service.
REASONS FOR EXCESS PHLEGM
These conditions may lead to excess phlegm production. They include
 Vocal abuse that includes excessive yelling and screaming
 Smoking
 Hay fever
 Asthma
 Air pollution
 During flu, cold or pneumonia
 Acute bronchitis
 Nasal polyps
 Tuberculosis
 Esophageal cancer
 Anaphylaxis. It is the most severe form of an allergic reaction.
 COPD and
 Streptococcus infection.
DISTINCTION BETWEEN MUCUS AND PHLEGM
Contrary to popular misconception and misuse, mucus and phlegm are not always the same.

3. MUCUS
Mucus is a normal protective layering around the airway, eye, nasal turbinate, and uro-genital
tract. Mucus is an adhesive visco-elastic gel produced in the airway by sub-mucosal
glands and goblet cells and is principally water. It also contains high-molecular weight
mucous glycoproteins that form linear polymers.
PHLEGM
Phlegm is more related to disease than is mucus and can be troublesome for the individual to
excrete from the body. Phlegm is a juicy secretion in the airway during disease and
inflammation. Phlegm usually contains mucus with virus, bacteria, other debris, and sloughed-
off inflammatory cells. Once phlegm has been expectorated by a cough it becomes sputum.
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EXCESSIVE PHLEGM CREATION
There are multiple factors that can contribute to an excess of phlegm in the throat or larynx.
 Vocal abuse: Vocal abuse is the misuse or overuse of the voice in an unhealthy fashion
such as clearing the throat, yelling, screaming, talking loudly, or singing incorrectly.
 Clearing the throat: Clearing the throat removes or loosens phlegm but the vocal cords
hit together causing inflammation and therefore more phlegm.
 Yelling/screaming: Yelling and screaming both cause the vocal cords to hit against each
other causing inflammation and phlegm.
 Nodules: Excessive yelling, screaming, and incorrect singing as well as other vocal
abusive habits can cause vocal nodules. See vocal fold nodule for more information on
nodules.
 Smoking: Smoke is hot, dry, polluted air which dries out the vocal cords. With each
breath in of smoke, the larynx is polluted with toxins that inhibit it from rehydrating for
about 3 hours. The vocal cords need a fair amount of lubrication and swell from
inflammation when they do not have enough of it. When the vocal folds swell and are
inflamed, phlegm is often created to attempt to ease the dryness.
 Experiment on smoking correlations: In 2002, an experiment was done and published by
the American College of Chest Physicians to find if there was a correlation of smokers
with coughing and phlegm. In the study, 117 participants were studied, a mix of current
smokers, ex-smokers, non-smokers, and a positive control of participants with a disease,
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.) At the end of the experiment,
experimenters found that there was a high correlation between phlegm and cough with
smoking of 0.49 (p < 0.001.)
 Illness: During illness like the flu, cold, and pneumonia, phlegm becomes more excessive
as an attempt to get rid of the bacteria or viral particles within the body. A major illness
associated with excess phlegm is acute bronchitis. A major symptom of acute bronchitis

4. is an excess amount of phlegm and is usually caused by a viral infection, and only
bacterial infections, which are rare, are to be treated with an antibiotic.
 Hay fever, asthma: In hay fever and asthma, inner lining in bronchioles become inflamed and
create an excess amount of phlegm that can clog up air pathways.
 Air pollution: In studies of children, air pollutants have been found to increase phlegm by
drying out and irritating parts of the throat.
[

HOME REMEDIES FOR PHLEGM AND MUCUS
Phlegm is a type of mucus produced in the lungs and lower respiratory tract. It is most noticeable
when a person is acutely sick or has a longstanding health condition.
Mucus forms a protective lining in certain parts of the body, even when a person is well. Mucus
keeps these areas from drying out and helps to defend against invaders, including viruses and
bacteria.
Though a healthy body requires some mucus, too much can be uncomfortable. Excess may be
caused by:
 Infections, such as the common cold or flu
 Allergies
 Irritation of the nose, throat, or lungs
 Digestive conditions, such as gastro-esophageal reflux disease
 Smoking tobacco products
 Lung diseases, such as pneumonia, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease
HOW TO GET RID OF PHLEGM AND MUCUS

5. Drinking fluids, keeping the head elevated, and using nasal sprays may help to get rid of phlegm
and mucus.
Taking the following actions can help to eliminate excess mucus and phlegm:
1. Keeping the air moist. Dry air irritates the nose and throat, causing more mucus to form as a
lubricant. Placing a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom can promote better sleep, keeping the
nose clear and preventing a sore throat. Various humidifiers are available to purchase online.
2. Drinking plenty of fluids. The body needs to stay hydrated to keep mucus thin. When a
person is sick with a cold, drinking extra fluids can thin the mucus and help the sinuses to drain.
People with seasonal allergies may also find that staying hydrated helps to avoid congestion.
3. Applying a warm, wet washcloth to the face. This can be a soothing remedy for a pounding
sinus headache. Inhaling through a damp cloth is a quick way to return moisture to the nose and
throat. The heat will help to relieve pain and pressure.
4. Keeping the head elevated. When the buildup of mucus is particularly bothersome, it may
help to sleep propped up on a few pillows or in a reclining chair. Lying flat can increase
discomfort, because it may feel as though mucus is collecting at the back of the throat.
5. Not suppressing a cough. It may be tempting to use suppressants when experiencing a
nagging, phlegm-filled cough. However, coughing is the body's way of keeping secretions out of
the lungs and throat. Use cough syrups sparingly, if at all.
6. Discreetly getting rid of phlegm. When phlegm rises from the lungs into the throat, the body
is likely trying to remove it. Spitting it out is healthier than swallowing it.A saline nasal spray or
rinse may help to clear out mucus.

6. 7. Using a saline nasal spray or rinse. A saline spray or irrigator can clear out mucus and
allergens from the nose and sinuses. Look for sterile sprays that contain only sodium chloride,
and be sure to use sterile or distilled water when irrigating. A variety of nasal irrigators are
available for purchase online.
8. Gargling with salt water. This can soothe an irritated throat and may help to clear away
residual mucus. One teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water can be gargled several times per
day.
9. Using eucalyptus. Eucalyptus products have used to subdue coughs and reduce mucus for
years. They are usually applied directly to the chest. A few drops of eucalyptus oil can also be
added to a diffuser or a warm bath to help clear the nose. Some eucalyptus oils may be added to
humidifiers.
10. Not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke. Smoking and secondhand smoke cause the
body to produce more phlegm and mucus.
11. Minimizing the use of decongestants. While they dry secretions and can alleviate a runny
nose, decongestants may make it harder to get rid of phlegm and mucus.
12. Taking the right medicine. Medications known as expectorants can help to thin mucus and
phlegm, making them easier to cough or blow out. However, check to make sure that these
medications do not also contain decongestants.
13. Keeping allergies in check. Seasonal allergies can lead to a runny or stuffy nose, as well as
excess mucus and phlegm. Many over-the-counter allergy medications can reduce symptoms,
and can be purchased online.
14. Avoiding irritants. Chemicals, fragrances, and pollution can irritate the nose, throat, and
lower airways. This causes the body to produce more mucus.
15. Keeping track of food reactions. Some foods can cause reactions that mimic seasonal
allergies. They may cause the nose to run and the throat to itch, leading to excess mucus. Make a
record of any foods that trigger an increase in phlegm or mucus.
16. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Both substances lead to dehydration if consumed in excess.
When mucus and phlegm are an issue, drink plenty of warm, non-caffeinated beverages.

7. Phlegm is a great nuisance, and it even causes bad breath. Cheer up here is some great news in
this article. You can easily get rid of the phlegm from your throat without the use of antibiotics.
17. Taking a hot bath or shower. Time spent in a steam-filled bathroom will help to loosen and
clear mucus in the nose and throat. Allowing hot water to pulse on the face can also bring relief
from sinus pressure.
18. Blowing the nose gently. It may be tempting to keep blowing until thick mucus comes out.
However, doing so too forcefully may hurt the sinuses, leading to pain, pressure, and possibly
infection.
19. Eating plenty of fruit. One study found that a diet rich in fiber from fruit, and possibly soy,
may lead to fewer respiratory problems linked to phlegm.
20. Avoiding foods that cause acid reflux. Acid reflux can lead to an increase in phlegm and
mucus. People prone to heartburn should avoid trigger foods and ask a doctor about proper
management.
EASY WAYS TO GET RID OF PHLEGM
These are some of the simple but efficient ways to remove phlegm from your throat.
Lemon and Honey

Honey has antibacterial properties. It acts as a hypertonic osmotic. This means that it draws out
the water out of inflamed tissues. This action soothes the irritated tissues and reduces swelling.

8. You can drink a hot cup of lemon tea to ease the sticky phlegm. Take a cup of boiling water. Add
juice of half a lemon and two teaspoons of honey. You can add a tablespoon of brandy and
whisky too. Mix everything and enjoy your cup of hot lemon tea.
GARGLE SALT


The good old fashioned salt water gargle produces fast and effective relief. Add half a teaspoon
of salt to a glass of warm water and gargle. Repeat this process every hour for a maximum
benefit. Salt draws out the water out of the mucous membranes. It also helps to clear the phlegm.
It contains antiseptic properties. Water keeps the throat, and its lining hydrated and soothes the
stinging throat. You can also gargle with sage tea. Boil 8 ounces of water and add 4 tablespoons
of dried sage. Allow it to stand for 4 hours, strain it and then you can use it for gargling.
Tabasco sauce gargle can remove phlegm from the throat. This is how you go about. Add 10-20
drops of Tabasco sauce to water and gargle. This sauce is made from chilies and has antiviral
properties. You should be careful not to swallow it. You can gargle with bi-carb solution to
soothe your throat. Add half a teaspoon of soda bicarb to a glass of warm water and gargle.
GINGER

9. Ginger is a natural decongestant and antihistamine. It improves circulation and helps to excrete
toxins more effectively. It contains a compound called shagoal which is believed to kill cold
viruses. Take half a piece of grated ginger, a few cinnamon and a teaspoon of Carnation. Add a
cup of hot water. Stir and filter it. Add a teaspoon of honey. It works wonders to remove the
phlegm.Slice a half or quarter inch piece of ginger and chew it. Drinking ginger tea produces
great relief. Add ½ inch piece of ginger root to a cup of boiling water. Add lemon juice and
honey to it. Filter and enjoy.
A ginger poultice is good to remove phlegm. Add a1-inch piece of grated fresh ginger in hot
water. Make a fine paste. Add two drops of thyme or eucalyptus essential oil. Apply it to chest
and throat area. Leave it for an hour or till it becomes uncomfortably hot.
SLIPPERY ELM FOR PHLEGM


Slippery elm grows in North America, and its powdered bark is used to treat colds by the Native
Americans. It is well respected among herbalists. We found the best slippery elm to get rid
of phlegm. This wonderful bark powder is believed to cause phlegm to ball up. This makes it
easier to cough it out. It is said to be mucilaginous. Slippery elm contains soluble fiber which
when mixed in water forms a gummy gel-like substance. This substance coats the throat and
soothes the inflammation. Slippery elm can greatly reduce the phlegm in your throat. To make a
hot tea out of it, add one tablespoon of the bark powder to one cup of boiling water. Your tea is
ready. You can also apply it as a poultice. Add the slippery elm bark powder to hot water and
make a paste. Apply some oil to your chest and back. Spread the paste and cover it with a plastic
wrap. Put a towel over the poultice and keep a hot water bottle or heating pad to keep it warm.
Remove after 15-30 minutes. Slippery elm is considered safe. You should use it two hours before
or after taking any medications. Do NOT apply it on any open wound.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

10. It has antiseptic properties that fight against sinus infection and clears mucus. Apple cider
vinegar has natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that boost the
immune system.It has high pH levels which break up the phlegm and clears the throat. It thins
the phlegm, boosts the immune system and prevents infection.This is how you go about. Mix 2
teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water. Add stevia or honey to enhance the
taste. Drink twice daily for best results. If you gargle this mixture along with the above process.
The result would be stunning.A hot steam helps to relieve the phlegm from your throat. Mix half
a cup of apple cider vinegar and half a cup of water. Heat it on a stove for 5-7 minutes. Turn off
the heat and inhale the steam with your eyes closed. Repeat it 2 times a day to get relief from the
phlegm.
Apple cider vinegar with flax seeds and honey are a great combination to fight phlegm. Mix 2
tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or orange juice. Add this mixture to a¼ cup of flax seeds. Add
a teaspoon of honey. Drizzle the mixture over a salad and enjoy.
TURMERIC
This yellow spice has great anti-inflammatory properties. The natural inflammatory compound
curcumin is present in turmeric. This compound is so powerful that it matches the effectiveness
of certain anti-inflammatory drugs.No wonder turmeric can keep the bacteria that cause excess
phlegm production at bay, it also strengthens the immune system.You can mix half teaspoon of
turmeric in a glass of warm water and drink it thrice a day. Mix one tablespoon of turmeric and a
pinch of salt in warm water and gargle. This reduces the phlegm in your throat.Add one teaspoon
of turmeric to a warm cup of milk. Drink it in the morning and before going to bed. You can add
half a teaspoon of turmeric to a bowl of chicken soup.Turmeric produces quick relief, removes
phlegm and soothes your throat. Get your own turmeric capsules for best results.
GARLIC

11. It is otherwise known as the stinking rose. Garlic has amazing anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
and antiviral properties. Aged garlic is very effective in treating airway inflammation. So it helps
to remove phlegm from your throat.Garlic is rich in vitamin C, which is very effective for
treating cold and flu. It promotes peristalsis and diuretic action. They are efficient flushing
mechanisms and removes phlegm out of your throat. Garlic boosts immunity.You can take a few
cloves of raw garlic, crush it and have it along with water in the morning. Take a few cloves of
raw garlic before going to bed.Garlic nose drops help to loosen mucus. Crush fresh garlic to
produce juice and dilute it with 10 parts of water. Use a nose dropper to administer it gently.You
can add garlic to soups and sauces. Sauté steamed spinach, garlic, and fresh lemon juice. You
can also make garlic mashed potatoes, puree roasted garlic, olive oil, and cooked
potatoes. Garlic in any form clears the phlegm in your throat.
ACUPUNCTURE

In traditional Chinese medicine, phlegm is caused due to stagnant or energy. Steven Clavey, a
practitioner of acupuncture in Melbourne Australia, says that the treatment of phlegm should first

12. address the sluggish that led to its creation.The theory goes like this; the kidneys draw qi from
the environment, and the liver governs its smooth flow throughout the body. So to treat phlegm,
you must concentrate on these two.
The two acupuncture points for clearing phlegm are K27 a kidney point and Liv3 a liver point.
The Liv3 is the point between the bones of the big toe and the second one. With your thumb push
into the space between them press downward toward the ankle. You can feel a tender spot,
massage the spot and hold it until it is no longer painful. Repeat this process on the other feet
too.For the point, K27 follow the collar bone in toward the center where it joins the breastbone.
The K27 rests in the hollow underneath the collar bone.Raise your shoulder to make your
collarbone protrude if you can’t find the hollow. Massage and press the less tender side. Then
work your way to the more tender side. Do this until the point no longer feels sore. Acupuncture
produces effective relief. You can combine any of the above-discussed methods along with
acupuncture to maximize the benefit.
CONCLUSION
The main aim of this article is to help you to find relief quickly. You can also eat spicy foods
such as horseradish or pepper. These act as a decongestant and bring out noxious phlegm.You
can drink hot liquids such as tea or chicken soup to soothe your throat. Drink plenty of water to
flush away the phlegm.Toast is also great because it breaks the phlegm and carry it down to your
stomach. If you are addicted to smoking, try your level best to stop it. Avoid exposure to
hazardous chemicals and fumes which may irritate the respiratory system. Take a hot shower and
relax.Hum a melody because it is believed that the vibrations break up the phlegm. Always spit
the phlegm out and never swallow it. Take note that it is best to try natural remedies before
resorting to drugstore expectorants. It never hurts to check the effects of natural treatments first
because like prescriptions, they are proven effective and less likely to have negative side effects.
Take plenty of rest and have a positive attitude. So I hope above tips benefits to relieve
congestion of our lungs to live long life without consequences of organism.