Cough with phlegm is a type of cough in which mucus or sputum in the respiratory system is expelled with a cough reflex. This type of cough usually occurs in order to clear the mucus accumulated in the respiratory tract. Sputum is produced by glands in the respiratory tract, such as the nose, throat, bronchi, and lungs, and acts as an airway protector. The cough mechanism plays an important role in the normal excretion of sputum from the body. However, in some cases, a cough with phlegm may occur as a result of increased sputum production or thickening of the mucus in the respiratory tract. A cough with phlegm can often be a symptom of underlying health problems such as respiratory infections, allergic reactions, smoking, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
A cough with phlegm can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some common factors that cause a cough with phlegm:
- Respiratory Tract Infections: Respiratory infections such as colds, flu, bronchitis or pneumonia can increase sputum production and lead to a phlegm cough.
- AsthmaAsthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by narrowing and inflammation of the airways. During an asthma attack, mucus accumulation in the airways may increase and a cough with phlegm may occur.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD is a progressive lung disease that is often associated with smoking. COPD can cause blockage of airflow and increased sputum production, leading to a cough with phlegm.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or allergic asthma can cause inflammation of the airways and increased sputum production.
- Smoking: Smoking irritates the airways and increases mucus production. Cigarette smoke can cause thickening of sputum and a cough with phlegm.
Treatment of cough with phlegm relies on identifying and treating the underlying cause. Here are some methods that can help relieve and pass a cough with phlegm:
- Humidification and Fluid Consumption: Drinking plenty of water helps the body maintain its moisture balance and dilutes the sputum. Being in humid environments can also moisten the respiratory tract.
- Mist Inhalations: Hot steam inhalations or steam showers moisten the airways and may help dilute phlegm.
- Sputum Examiners: Sputum thinning medications recommended by your doctor may help dilute the sputum and help it to be expelled more easily.
- Cough Medicines: Expectorant cough medicines can facilitate the expulsion of sputum. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using such drugs.
- Breathing Exercises: Breathing exercises can help strengthen the airways and clear phlegm more effectively. Respiratory therapy with a physiotherapist can also be helpful.
What causes phlegm cough?
You can use natural methods to relieve phlegm cough. Here are some methods that can be used to relieve and pass a cough with phlegm:
- Hot drinks: Hot drinks can help dilute phlegm by moisturizing the respiratory tract. In particular, herbal teas (for example, linden, ginger, sage) or natural drinks such as warm water mixed with honey and lemon can relieve coughing.
- Honey: Honey can be used as a natural option in the treatment of cough. It is known to help relieve coughing and soothe the throat. You can mix a teaspoon of honey into hot water and drink it or consume it directly.
- Ginger: Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and help dilute sputum. You can consume ginger tea or a beverage prepared with chopped ginger.
- Steam Inhalations: Hot steam inhalations can moisten the airways, helping to dilute phlegm and relieve the throat. You can inhale the steam by adding a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil to boiling water.
- Salt Water Gargle: Salt water can help soften the mucus that builds up in the throat and relieve coughing. Add half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water, mix and gargle with this mixture.
- Plenty of Fluid Consumption: Consuming plenty of fluids helps the body maintain its moisture balance and dilutes the sputum. Water, herbal teas, freshly squeezed juice or natural drinks can be preferred.
- Rest and Stress Avoidance: The body needs rest and recovery. Getting enough sleep, avoiding stress and resting the body strengthens the immune system and supports the healing process of cough.
These natural remedies can relieve coughing and help dilute phlegm. However, in cases of severe or prolonged cough, it is important to consult a doctor.
What to do to stop a cough with phlegm?
A cough with phlegm can be uncomfortable and interfere with daily activities. Some methods that can answer the question of what stops the cough with phlegm can be listed as follows:
- Medicines: Expectorant medications can help thin the sputum and make it easier to pass. Cough suppressants can temporarily relieve cough by suppressing the cough reflex. However, you should consult your doctor before using these drugs.
- Hot Liquids: Hot drinks can help moisten the airways and dilute phlegm. Herbal teas, natural drinks such as honey and lemon mixed with warm water can also relieve cough.
- Sputum Clearing Techniques: You can use the right techniques to expel phlegm. You can try to cough quickly and uninterruptedly by closing your mouth and nostrils while coughing.
- Humid environment: Being in a humid environment can help moisten the airways. You can use a humidifier for this or humidify your room with a steamer.
- Focus on Rest and Recovery: The body needs rest and recovery. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet and staying away from stress help strengthen the immune system and promote rapid healing of cough.
Since each person’s body is different from each other, the methods that can be used to cut phlegm cough are different from each other. Remember that you must consult your doctor to find the most suitable cough suppressant method for you.