How To Get Rid Of Phlegm

Reduce Use Of Decongestants

Photo Credit: Dreamstime

When searching for ways to get rid of phlegm, it is very important for individuals to reduce their use of decongestants. These medications are designed to reduce the size of tissues and blood vessels in the nose that have become swollen, which should relieve some of the congestion. While these medications work well at drying secretions and getting rid of a runny nose, they will also cause any thick phlegm and mucus to harden as opposed to getting thinner, which means the phlegm could worsen as the result of using decongestants. When searching for the right nasal spray to get rid of phlegm, individuals must make sure they don't accidentally opt for a decongestant spray as opposed to a saline nasal spray.

Avoid Irritants In The Air

woman sneezing. Photo Credit: Dreamstime

There's always a possibility the thickened phlegm an individual is suffering from could worsen instead of clearing up over time, which can be caused by certain irritants. To ensure the other solutions on this list are effective at getting rid of phlegm for good, it's highly recommended for individuals to do what they can to avoid irritants in the air. The main irritants individuals should stay away from while recovering from the infection or underlying condition causing the phlegm include pollution, chemicals, and strong fragrances.

These irritants can create issues within the throat, nose, and airways, which will cause the phlegm to worsen. When an individual's nose or throat becomes irritated by these substances, their body will react by producing more mucus. While it's not always possible to wholly avoid irritants in the air, staying inside for the duration of their sickness should help individuals minimize their exposure to these irritants.

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