Table of contents:
- Overview of phlegm
- The cause of the throat is phlegm even though you don't cough
- 1. Infection
- 2. Irritating pollutants
- 3. Acute sinusitis
- 4. Pregnancy
- 5. Consuming milk
- 6. Certain physiological factors
Do you often have phlegm, but don't cough? Phlegm throat is indeed a disturbing condition because it makes the throat feel like a lump. So, what causes phlegm in your throat, even though you don't have a cough or flu? This is the answer.
Overview of phlegm
In fact, phlegm itself is a slippery substance that acts as a lubricant for the sinuses and throat. This substance is produced by mucus cells in the mucous glands which contain water, mucin, salts, electrolytes, and various types of cells, such as epithelial cells.
Having phlegm is normal. A person can have phlegm in his throat even though he is in good health. The average body produces 1-2 liters of mucus a day which is used to keep the throat moist and help the respiratory system. Apart from that, phlegm also works to help fight irritation and infection.
It's just that, in certain cases too much sputum production. This makes your throat continue to secrete phlegm even though your body is not in a cough or cold state.
The cause of the throat is phlegm even though you don't cough
Here are some factors that cause phlegm in the throat even though you don't cough:
1. Infection
Mucus production is usually accelerated when the body is experiencing an infection. This is the body's natural response to removing foreign particles that might cause infection.
In short, the body tends to stimulate mucus production to increase its defenses against foreign infectious attacks. As a result, there is a thickening of the mucus. In this phase, the easiest way out of the thick mucus is through the throat.
2. Irritating pollutants
Accidentally inhaling smoke, poisonous gases, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, can actually cause excessive mucus production. This condition makes the respiratory tract swollen and inflamed. Again, as the main response, phlegm was finally generated.
3. Acute sinusitis
Acute sinusitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the sinus cavities. The swelling blocks the sinus passages which in turn causes mucus to build up. Acute sinusitis can be caused by a bacterial infection or a yeast infection.
In addition, sleeping on your back when you have a sinus infection also causes mucus to build up in the back of your throat, which can lead to sore throats and sleep problems.
4. Pregnancy
Yes, along with weight gain, emotional instability, and morning sickness, excess mucus production can occur due to the effects of pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can dry out the nasal passages causing them to become inflamed.
Well, because of this problem, the mucus production in the nose and throat becomes excess. To reduce breathing circulation due to mucus buildup, you can use a warm wet cloth that is placed on your nose or cheek.
5. Consuming milk
Consuming dairy products when you have the flu, cold, or fever can cause thickening and uncontrolled mucus production. Allergic reactions to certain foods can also cause nasal congestion that causes mucus to flow from the nose to the throat.
Consuming milk, wheat products, and eggs can aggravate your food allergy symptoms as well as cause excess mucus production, which can eventually build up in your throat.
6. Certain physiological factors
A person who has a throat and swallowing disorder can also cause mucus to build up in the throat. This is because people who have a throat disorder and swallow their throat muscles have low control so that mucus cannot be expelled and remains in the throat.
In addition, it has a deviated septum, which is a condition in which the cartilage that divides the nose into two sides moves, causing changes in the flow of mucus.
