With the change in weather or during the cold season, it’s common for many people to experience bothersome phlegm buildup, especially if they catch a cold or develop respiratory infections like the flu or bronchitis, this phenomenon often raises questions about why phlegm increases at this time of year and why it changes color.
In this article, we’ll explore the role phlegm plays in the recovery process and how it helps protect our respiratory system.
Why Does Phlegm Increase in Cold Weather?
During colder months or sudden temperature changes, the immune system can become more vulnerable due to various environmental factors; Cold, dry air irritates the respiratory tract, temporarily weakening our defenses and increasing mucus production as a natural response to keep the respiratory passages moist and protected.
Additionally, we tend to spend more time indoors during these seasons, where bacteria and viruses can spread more easily, these microorganisms trigger respiratory infections like colds or the flu, activating the body’s immune response.
Why Does Phlegm Change to Green or Yellow?
When the immune system is actively fighting an infection, phlegm can change color, for example green or yellow mucus often indicates the presence of immune cells like neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that eliminates bacteria and other pathogens.
When neutrophils battle an infection, they release enzymes that contain iron, giving the mucus that characteristic greenish hue, thus, a change in the color of phlegm is a sign that the body is actively fighting an infectious agent.
The Role of Phlegm in Recovery
The thick mucus produced during an infection serves an important purpose: trapping bacteria, viruses, dust, and toxins. By accumulating in the respiratory passages, mucus helps the body eliminate these infectious agents and unwanted particles through coughing, in this way, we can think of coughing as part of the cure, not the illness itself.
Expelling phlegm by coughing helps clear the respiratory tract, enabling the lungs to work more effectively and supporting faster recovery; This process also helps reduce inflammation and prevents bacteria from building up, which could worsen the infection or cause other respiratory complications.
Is It Better to Expel or Swallow Phlegm?
When we expel phlegm, we physically remove pathogens and waste that the respiratory system has trapped, however, if we accidentally swallow it, the body has an additional defense mechanism: stomach acids break down the bacteria and microorganisms present in the mucus, removing the infection risk in most cases.
While swallowing phlegm is generally safe, repeated swallowing could lead to an upset stomach, as the phlegm contains waste and toxins that the body is trying to expel through the mouth.
Therefore, it’s generally better to spit it out, as this also helps to relieve congestion and improve breathing.
When Should I See a Doctor?
While phlegm is a normal part of the recovery process, certain signs may indicate a more serious infection that requires medical attention, for example:
- Phlegm with blood: This could signal a severe infection or damage in the respiratory passages.
- Foul-smelling phlegm: This may indicate a bacterial infection in the sinuses or lungs.
- Persistent green or yellow phlegm for more than a week: If symptoms don’t improve, it may be a sign of a bacterial infection that needs antibiotic treatment.
- Other symptoms: Persistent high fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
Tips to Reduce Phlegm Production and Relieve Congestion
Here are some natural and simple methods to help reduce phlegm buildup and make it easier to expel:
- Stay hydrated: Water helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel and reducing congestion.
- Inhale steam: Inhaling hot water steam (you can add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil) helps loosen phlegm and clear the respiratory passages.
- Use a humidifier: Keeping the air moist at home reduces dryness in the respiratory system, which decreases excessive mucus production.
- Avoid smoke and pollution: Air irritants can increase mucus production, so try to avoid cigarette smoke and polluted environments.
- Consume anti-inflammatory foods: Certain foods like ginger, turmeric, and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce mucus production (1)(2)(3).
- Gargle with warm salt water: This remedy can soothe the throat and help remove excess mucus in the back of the throat.
Final Thoughts
Green phlegm is a sign that your body is actively fighting an infection, while it can be annoying, it plays a vital role in protecting the respiratory system and helping expel microorganisms and toxins. Remember that it’s generally better to spit out phlegm to reduce congestion and avoid stomach discomfort.
If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional to receive the appropriate treatment, take care of your respiratory health, especially during the cold season, and allow your body to expel what it doesn’t need so you can feel better as soon as possible!