How to Get Rid of Mucus

Not many people know that production of mucus is necessary for the body to protect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, urogenital system, as well as many other body systems from diseases and infections. It consists of antiseptic enzymes as well as antibodies, and is thus, the body's defense mechanism against a whole lot of germs and bacteria.

However, problem begins when body overproduces it. This usually happens due to common cold or some kind of allergy a person suffers from. Excess mucus and phlegm blocks the chest, nose, and throat, making it difficult for a person to breathe, talk, eat, or sleep. As it can be very discomforting, it is important to get rid of excess mucus as soon as possible.

To get rid of mucus, the first thing that you should do is to take medication for any infection or allergy that might have caused it. As the infection is treated, the mucus will automatically reduce. Taking expectorants as well as nasal medication helps in fastening the process.

Expelling the mucus is extremely important. If you keep on swallowing the mucus, it will not get removed from your body. Only a bit of it gets dissolved, the rest remains stuck somewhere in the body. So, taking it out is essential to get rid of it completely.

Take steam. There are steamers available in the market, which can be straightaway plugged into an electric socket, after filling with water. When the water boils, the steam is inhaled through the narrow opening on top of  steamer. Another way to treat mucus caused by sinus infections, is to simply boil water in an open-lid utensil, and then take the steam.

Ensure that you cover your head with a towel to concentrate the steam towards your nose and the sinuses. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water, as it is known to thin out the mucus.

The towel should be wrapped around the head as well as the utensil in such a way that it traps the steam inside. Inhale and exhale slowly for about ten minutes. Do this three to four times a day, and you will definitely feel better.

Drink plenty of water. It helps in flushing off the mucus that sticks to the esophagus, thus clearing your throat.

Increase the intake of hot beverages. Drink a lot of warm soups, herbal teas, and even plain warm water. Add a dash of cayenne pepper to your beverages, as it is known to clear the sinuses. Hot beverages such as these thin the mucus and thus, help in clearing it off.

A mixture prepared with a tablespoon of honey and half a tablespoon of lemon juice in hot water, is very effective in clearing the mucus as well as soothing the throat. Consume this mixture every morning on an empty stomach. It has some added benefits, like, aiding in proper digestion.

Gargle with lukewarm water, in which, a pinch of salt has been added. This mixture of hot water and salt soothes the throat, and aids in mucus clearance as well.

An easy way to lessen the buildup of mucus and phlegm in the chest is to take a hot shower. When hot water is poured over the head and chest, it loosens the mucus, thus aiding in its removal from the body.

Besides, it is recommended that you take a healthy diet, which boosts up the immune system. A strong body will be able to fight off the infection more easily, which is the prime reason behind excess mucus buildup.

Give up on dairy products, as researches have shown that milk, yogurt, and all other dairy products contribute to excess mucus formation. If you follow these tips on a regular basis, you should be able to get relief from this problem very soon.