Phlegm in the throat: what can be the causes?
First thing to know: when we talk about "mucus in the throat", we usually mean phlegm. " Mucus made in the nose, whose role is to line the nasal mucous membranes, can thicken for several reasons, explains Dr. Constance Alexandre, general practitioner. It is then impossible for it to flow normally through the nose: it therefore flows at the back of the throat, giving the impression of mucus, this discomfort when swallowing. "In the event of mucus in the throat, it is therefore most often a problem in the nose.
- Phlegm in the throat: sinusitis
Sinusitis corresponds to an inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes (of the nose, therefore) and of the sinuses (these airways which go up to above the eyebrows and which descend under the nose). Of viral or bacterial origin, sinusitis is characterized by mucus in the throat, but also by pain in the forehead or sinuses (if it is acute), a runny nose (rhinorrhea) and headaches.
The doctor's advice. " If you have symptoms that may suggest sinusitis and are accompanied by a fever over 38.5 ° C, severe unilateral pain (on one side of the nose), it is best to make an appointment – you see the doctor, because it may be a question of an acute bacterial sinusitis requiring the establishment of antibiotic therapy (antibiotic drugs) "recommends Dr. Constance Alexandre.
- Phlegm in the throat: allergies
Seasonal allergies (such as pollen allergy, which begins in March with birch pollens and ends in September with ragweed pollen) can be responsible for allergic rhinitis: this is characterized by a runny nose and phlegm in the throat (because the mucus drains back). May be associated with allergic conjunctivitis (with red eyes, tearing, sneezing …) and dermatological signs (eczema, itching …).
The doctor's advice. " In the event of allergic symptoms, and especially if they come back periodically, it is still best to consult your doctor who can redirect you to an allergist doctor for a allergological assessment. In addition, in pharmacies, you can find over-the-counter anti-histamine drugs: ask your pharmacist for advice. "recommends Dr. Constance Alexandre.
- Phlegm in the throat: gastroesophageal reflux disease
" In the event of an acid rise or gastroesophageal reflux, we can have the sensation of having mucus in the throat: in reality, the gene is caused by a rise in gastric secretions which reach the back throat "explains the general practitioner. In the event of acid reflux, there is also an irritation of the throat (" itchy throat ") and a burnt / acid taste in the mouth: the symptoms tend to occur in the morning when you wake up because the lying down promotes gastroesophageal reflux disease.
The doctor's advice. " While waiting to consult a doctor, there are anti-acid / anti-reflux treatments available over the counter in pharmacies, for example Gaviscon®, advises Dr. Alexandre. Take one sachet at night before going to bed to protect the lining of the esophagus and throat. "
Phlegm in the throat: 5 grandmother's remedies to try
- Nose wash. " The nose wash is an interesting solution in case of mucus in the throat caused by sinusitis or by acid reflux "notes the general practitioner. It is carried out with physiological serum or with a product to be bought in pharmacies. In practice: the sprays of physiological serum are made head tilted over the sink, in each nostril, so that the liquid flows out of the other nostril, followed by blowing the nose.
- Self-massage. Traditional Chinese medicine offers two acupressure points to clear the upper airways and facilitate breathing. Point GI20 "reception of perfumes" aims to unblock the nose: place your two index fingers on the outer corner of each nostril, at the base of the nose, and press for 3 minutes while breathing well. The point GI1 "merchant's yang" helps to thin nasal secretions: pinch the outer edge of your index finger, thumb side, for 1 minute on each hand while breathing well.
- Homeopathy. In cases of chronic sinusitis, homeopathy suggests taking 3 granules morning and evening of Kalium Bichromicum 7 CH (to calm the flow in the throat) and Thuja 7 CH (against mucus in the throat).
- Phytotherapy. In herbal medicine, the expectorant properties of ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) are well known: during Antiquity, the Greek physician Theophrastus of Ereso already advised it to clear the respiratory tract. To eliminate mucus in the throat, we use solarized oil of ground ivy in massage, once a day. This remedy is possible from the age of 2 years, but only on medical advice.
- Aromatherapy. To help eliminate mucus, we can bet on the essential oil of eucalyptus radiata (Eucalyptus radiata Siebold) which has powerful expectorant and mucolytic properties. It is used in inhalation: place 3 drops of eucalyptus radiata on a tissue and inhale for a long time 5 times a day, until improvement. Warning: this essential oil is prohibited in children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as people with asthma and / or epilepsy.
Thanks to Dr. Constance Alexandre, general practitioner for My Doctors.
Sources:
- Do-In: the key points 100% vitality – Valérie Capel, ed. Leduc.S
- The great book of homeopathy – Dr. Dominique-Jean Sayous, ed. Eyrolles
- 250 do-it-yourself natural remedies – Dr. Claudine Luu, ed. Living Earth
- The company of the senses
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