Mucus Symptoms: What To Do If You Have Too Much
Mucus is a constant inhabitant of the nasal passages, though you’re rarely aware of its presence. It’s only when mucus symptoms become an issue that this sticky substance gains attention. These symptoms could include a runny nose, nasal congestion, and even throat issues, like coughing or a sore throat. Talk to your doctor and seek medical advice as this info is for educational purposes only. Health education also helps to increase individuals’ knowledge of health and health care.
As you age, excessive mucus may become more pronounced. This could be due to weakened immune and new allergies or more frequent illnesses, like colds, flu, sinusitis, or other respiratory or intestinal infections that your body may not be able to fight off as easily.
Mucus Symptoms
Mucus signs and symptoms are quite noticeable since they affect how you breathe. They include symptoms like runny noses, sinus congestion, and sinus headaches for the most part. Thicker mucus may also lead to coughing and sore throats. You may even notice color changes, from the usual clear substance to a darker yellow or green.
Why is my body producing so much mucus?
Mucus can be in the lungs or in your stomach and has a very specific purpose in the body. This substance contains antibodies and enzymes that work together to identify bacteria and germs that invade your body, trapping and killing them before they cause worsening symptoms. You usually dispel those interlopers by blowing your nose or sneezing, though sometimes they are more than the mucus can handle.
When this happens those worsening mucus symptoms become an issue. There are several causes for this excessive amount of mucus. Most of the time it is the result of an allergic reaction to pollen, dust, or ragweed. A cold can also lead to higher mucus production.
A dry environment, smoking cigarettes, and certain medications can cause more mucus in your system. Even the foods you eat can cause a reaction, especially those spicy meals, dairy products or those beverages that cause fluid loss, like alcohol, coffee, or tea.
Some health conditions could cause an increase in mucus production. Acid reflux, asthma, and sinus infections, intestinal infections can all contribute to it. There are even some more serious lung conditions, like chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia can all cause those mucus symptoms.
What to do if you have too much
It is possible to reduce the excess mucus in your nasal passages. Over-the-counter antihistamines can combat allergic reactions, while decongestants dry up the moisture in your nose. There are side effects to these, though, like dizziness, dry mouth, headache, and high blood pressure, so it’s best to speak with a doctor before using one.
A Neti Pot is shaped like a teapot and is used for nasal irrigation. This involves pouring a saline solution through one nostril, where it loosens up the collected mucus and then drains through your other nostril. Be sure to use distilled, boiled, or sterile water and clean the Neti pot thoroughly after each use.
Other solutions include gargling with warm water, using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, drinking plenty of liquids, and avoiding any irritants, like fragrances, pollution, chemicals, or anything else that triggers these types of mucus symptoms.
This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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