Singers, speakers, actors and anyone who uses their voice as a tool knows the importance of a clear throat. This helps to keep mucus from building up and project the voice with a stronger, more in tune. There are products and home remedies that will help you clear your throat if it is full of phlegm.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Products sold in pharmacies
Step 1. Take medication that thins the mucus
Expectorant medications such as guaifenesin reduce phlegm, which causes coughing and irritation in the throat. Look for it in pharmacies and take it according to the directions on the package. If you are concerned about mixing guaifenesin with another treatment, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Use nasal spray. Nasal sprays and liquid decongestants are available at any pharmacy. They are very effective in clearing phlegm and alleviating other sore throats.
Step 1.
- Use any medicine as instructed on the package. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
- If you prefer to irrigate your nose, either with a syringe or a neti pot, use sterile water. Microbes found in tap water can travel to your brain through your nose, causing health problems and even death.
Step 2. Take pain relievers if your throat is sore
Medicines such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can improve pain caused by inflammation. They can reduce symptoms such as coughing and sneezing, which can make the situation even worse. As usual, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Part 2 of 3: Using Home Remedies
Step 1. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated will help a lot if you have too much mucus in your throat. Liquids can thin it and make it easier to expectorate.
- Drink an average of eight glasses of water a day. Try taking a little more if you're suffering from a sore throat - sparkling water can help scratch it.
- Stay away from processed juices and sodas. The sugar used in making them can irritate your throat. When you want to drink something other than water, a sports drink or natural fruit juice are much better options.
- Milk and dairy products generally increase phlegm. Avoid these products when you are congested.
Step 2. Use lemon and honey
Both honey and lemon are helpful in calming the throat. Try adding a freshly squeezed lemon or a spoon of honey to a glass of ice water or tea. This will help to clear the phlegm and even lessen the discomfort it causes.
Step 3. Eat spicy foods
Burnt foods usually thin and loosen the phlegm. This will make it easier to cough, sneeze and blow your nose. Peppers, horseradish, radishes, onions and other foods can help clear the throat.
Step 4. Drink tea
A lot of people find that herbal teas help soothe the throat, not without reason. Try different types of teas and see if any of them work.
- Chamomile, ginger and lemon are the most popular for this purpose.
- Some people prefer green tea to soothe their throats. Add lemon or honey to intensify the effects.
Step 5. Consume healthy foods for your voice
Some foods are great for the voice and help keep your throat clear. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables that contain vitamins A, E and C will help keep you mucus free. Eat light foods if your throat is sore or sore, until the irritation subsides.
Part 3 of 3: Changing Your Lifestyle
Step 1. Stop smoking
If you are a smoker, make an effort to stop. smoking is very harmful health, making you even more prone to infections such as bronchitis and tonsillitis. Cigarettes damage the throat and vocal cords, resulting in pain and a full chest. Talk to your doctor and discuss methods of stopping.
Step 2. Invest in a humidifier
A very dry environment can be bad for the respiratory system. Consider purchasing a humidifier if you live in a dry area. Keeping it on during the day or night will increase the humidity in your home, reducing sore throat.
Step 3. Avoid straining your voice
Assess the way you speak if you often suffer from sore throats. Forcing the voice inflames the throat, resulting in the production of phlegm.
- Try not to cough with a sore throat. Coughing too much can make the infection worse. Take medication such as cough suppressants or expectorants to improve this irritation.
- Avoid screaming. Make an effort to rest your voice for the rest of the day if you work in an area that requires excessive use. Speak softly and try not to raise your pitch.
Step 4. Don't overclean your throat
Coughing, clearing your throat, and other attempts to clear it provide momentary relief, but doing so whenever you have pain can lead to worse irritation, intensifying the symptoms and duration of the illness. When the temptation to clear your throat, buy expectorant medicine, cough syrup, or throat lozenges.
Step 5. Avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine
Both increase dehydration, leading to dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes. Try to avoid excessive caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. For men, alcohol intake should be limited to two drinks in one night; for women, one dose is enough.
Step 6. Get medical help
Sore throats are not serious and usually go without intervention, but if congestion lasts longer than two weeks you should see a doctor to see if there are other illnesses causing it.