How to Make Phlegm Go Away

Phlegm is the thick, sticky substance that our bodies produce when we have a respiratory infection or when our body is trying to expel irritants from our airways. It can be uncomfortable, irritating, and sometimes even embarrassing. If you’re dealing with excess phlegm, here are some effective ways to make it go away.

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm water, can help thin out the phlegm and make it easier to cough up. It also ensures that your body stays properly hydrated, which aids in the overall healing process.

2. Use a saline nasal spray: Saline nasal sprays can help moisturize and clear your nasal passages, reducing congestion and preventing excess mucus production. It can also help soothe any irritations in your nasal passage caused by excessive phlegm.

3. Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam is a simple yet effective way to loosen and thin out the phlegm. You can do this by leaning over a bowl of hot water, placing a towel over your head, and breathing in deeply. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil can further enhance the steam’s beneficial effects.

4. Gargle with warm salt water: Gargling with warm saltwater can help soothe a scratchy throat and reduce the phlegm in your throat. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this several times a day for optimal results.

5. Avoid irritants: Try to minimize exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, chemicals, or strong scents, as they can trigger excess mucus production. If you’re a smoker, consider quitting or at least reducing your smoking to give your body a chance to heal.

6. Use a humidifier: Dry air can worsen the symptoms of excess phlegm, so using a humidifier in your bedroom or any other room where you spend a significant amount of time can help keep your airways moist.

7. Over-the-counter medications: If natural remedies don’t provide enough relief, over-the-counter medications such as expectorants or mucolytics can help break up and thin out the phlegm. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.

8. Keep moving: Regular physical activity can help improve your lung function, increase circulation, and promote the removal of phlegm from your airways. Simple exercises like walking, jogging, or doing yoga can be beneficial in reducing excess phlegm.

9. Menthol cough drops or lozenges: These can help soothe your throat and provide temporary relief from excessive phlegm. Look for products containing menthol or eucalyptus for the best results.

10. Rest and allow your body to recover: Sometimes, the best thing you can do to get rid of phlegm is to rest and allow your body to heal. Be sure to get plenty of sleep and avoid excessive physical or mental exertion while your body fights off the infection.

While these methods can help alleviate the discomfort of excess phlegm, it’s important to remember that it may take some time for your body to fully recover. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for further guidance and assistance.