Everything You Ever Wondered About Mucus and Phlegm – Cold and Flu Center

Misconceptions abound about mucus and phlegm and about what their consistency and color mean.

“This is probably one of the most common discussions that I have to have with patients as an ear, nose, and throat specialist,” says Michael S. Ellis, MD, a clinical professor of otolaryngology at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans.

“I call it the New Orleans nose. People in New Orleans think they have allergies causing their mucus problems, but that’s wrong.”

These “mucus problems” aren’t just plaguing New Orleans residents. People across the country are fighting runny noses, clogged noses, postnasal drip, and everything in between.

Respiratory infections, the common cold, sinus infections, allergies, smoking, and even your environment all trigger changes in your mucus that can leave you frustrated and wandering the pharmacy aisles looking for the best solution.

“Mucus is like a gelatin, a sticky substance the function of which is to lubricate and also to filter,” says Dr. Ellis. It’s made by cells in membranes that run from your nose to your lungs. While you swallow most of it without noticing, what’s left behind keeps your airways moist so that they work properly.

However, Ellis explains, what most people think of as mucus in their nose and sinuses is a delicate balance of both mucus and watery secretions — fluid made by the cells of the nose and sinuses.

Usually these two substances work together smoothly, and you probably don’t even notice them.

“If you get an allergy or a cold and your nose is running like a faucet, you’re making an excess of watery secretions,” Ellis says.

At the other extreme, thick mucus — the kind that leads to postnasal drip and congestion or gets crusty — is usually the result of being excessively dry.

Ellis says 90 percent of the patients he sees are actually experiencing problems with thick mucus, not a runny nose due to the common cold.

Phlegm is a slightly different substance. It’s a form of mucus produced by the lower airways — not by the nose and sinuses — in response to inflammation.

You may not notice phlegm unless you cough it up as a symptom of bronchitis or pneumonia.

As is the case with mucus, phlegm that has a color such as green or yellow may indicate infection. And anytime you see blood in the phlegm you cough up, you should seek medical attention.

Mucus, explains Ellis, helps protect the lungs by capturing dirt and dust as you inhale. The dirt, dust, and debris are passed out of your system.

While a persistent yellow or green color, possibly accompanied by an unpleasant odor, is often a sign of infection, color does not always indicate a health problem, says Ellis.

The fact that your mucus may be discolored by what is in the air is a good thing.

“If you’re in an environment where there is a lot of dust or smoke or smog, the function of the nose is to protect the lungs,” he stresses.

Thick mucus, which may seem to have greater volume and may create problems such as postnasal drip, results from a number of situations and is usually an indication of being over-dry.

Here are some of the factors that contribute to that feeling of thick, clogging mucus:

• A dry indoor environment, which may be due to air-conditioning or heating
• Not drinking enough water and other fluids, or drinking beverages such as coffee, tea, and alcohol that may lead to losing fluids
• Medications that are drying
• Smoking

Using a small facial steamer or humidifier, taking a hot steamy shower, or even breathing through a warm wet washcloth can give you some relief from thick, crusty mucus.

Your doctor will evaluate the character of your mucus as well as the presence (or absence) of other allergy or cold symptoms. Getting the right diagnosis means you can get the right treatment.

Unfortunately, many people misdiagnose themselves, thinking, for example, that a large quantity of thick mucus indicates an allergy (which actually is signaled by a lot of watery secretions accompanied by allergy symptoms). They then mistakenly take antihistamines, which end up drying out the nose and making thick mucus worse.

“That’s why it’s important to make the right diagnosis,” says Ellis, who also warns against self-medicating with decongestants like Sudafed, which are also drying and will further thicken your mucus.

With a bacterial sinus infection you may be able to take a doctor-prescribed antibiotic to treat the cause, but with viral colds the best you can do is correctly treat symptoms, so you want to be sure you have the right match.

Here are some of the mucus problems Ellis sees, along with his recommended treatments:

• Postnasal drip (thick mucus) Take an expectorant (this thins mucus and phlegm), drink lots of fluids, breathe through a warm washcloth, and use steam to make the mucus more liquid.
• Congestion (blocked nose) This is mostly due to swollen nasal membranes, so shrinking those membranes is the goal. Use an oral decongestant or decongestant nasal spray (for up to three days only), breathe through a warm wet washcloth, and use steam to ease congestion.
• Runny nose (with sneezing and/or itching) Take an antihistamine.

Any option is fine, says Ellis. Since the mucus may be infected, make sure you follow basic hygiene after blowing your nose: Carefully dispose of the facial tissue and wash your hands. Also, avoid spitting out your mucus in public.

Mucus is so important that your body makes about a quart of the stuff on a normal day. Learn how to live with it when it is out of balance, and you’ll be more comfortable until the flow goes back to normal.

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Where does mucus come from?

The body uses mucus to protect tissues, remove particles, and prevent infections. Mucus consists mainly of water and a gel-forming molecule called mucin. It also contains antimicrobial and other molecules.

Mucus is essential for the functioning of many of the body’s organs. A person might think their body only makes mucus in response to illness, allergens, or irritants. But the body is always producing mucus, which is crucial for the functioning of several organs and the immune system.

Many health issues can lead to a buildup of mucus, drawing a person’s attention to this key bodily fluid. Most healthy people never notice that they are continually producing and swallowing it.

Below, learn what mucus is, how it forms, and what causes a buildup. We also explore tips for clearing it and when to contact a doctor.

Mucus is a fluid that the body produces to line moist areas, such as the:

• eyes
• mouth
• nose
• sinuses
• lungs
• throat
• stomach
• intestines
• reproductive organs

Most people only notice mucus when they are ill or exposed to allergens or irritants in the air. But glands in the areas listed above make mucus continually, secreting around 1–2 quarts daily.

Mucus helps with crucial functions, such as:

• adding moisture to inhaled air
• preventing moist organs from drying out
• filtering, trapping, and eliminating inhaled microparticles or microorganisms, such as allergens, dust, smoke, pollution, viruses, bacteria, and fungi
• fighting infection

Mucus helps trap microorganisms and microparticles on the surface of the lungs. Tiny hair-like appendages that line the lungs, called cilia, then beat in unison, creating a pulse that moves the entrapped particles up and out of the lungs.

Once the particle-filled mucus reaches the back of the throat, it typically moves down the throat without the person noticing.

After traveling down the throat, the mucus reaches the stomach, where it is digested and eliminated from the body in feces or urine. Mucus in the throat can also be coughed up and spit out.

Mucus is mostly made of water, but it also contains important proteins and sugars. The cells that make mucus also produce molecules that support immune function, and these become incorporated into the mucus.

The molecules in mucus include:

• antimicrobial molecules
• immune-modulating molecules
• protective molecules

The tissues lining the airways, nose, sinuses, and mouth contain two primary cell types: secretory cells, which release the components of mucus, and ciliated cells. These are covered with tiny hair-like projections called cilia.

Mucus is mostly water and a gel-forming molecule called mucin.

Special secretory cells called goblet cells are the predominant producers and releasers of mucin. A goblet cell is shaped like a medieval goblet, and it is not covered with cilia.

Goblet cells and other secretory cells also release a range of proteins, salts, fats, and immune molecules that mix with mucin and are incorporated into mucus.

Submucosal glands, found in the airways, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract, also produce and release mucin and mucus.

Ciliated cells use their tiny projections to move mucus throughout the body. The cilia move in a way that creates a unified pulse, pushing mucus along in waves.

Infections and irritants

When the airways are exposed to irritants, goblet cells and submucosal glands produce extra mucus to clear the airways.

In addition, infections can cause inflammation in airway tissues, which can likewise trigger the submucosal glands to produce more mucus. During an infection, mucus thickens because it fills with immune cells and entrapped foreign particles.

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system responds excessively to a harmless substance. The reaction triggers the release of histamine — a compound that can cause the airway linings to swell and stimulate the submucosal glands to produce more mucus.

Most healthy people are unaware that they are continually producing and swallowing mucus.

Several health issues can cause mucus to build up, either by stimulating excessive production, blocking or reducing mucus elimination, or causing the mucus to thicken.

Factors associated with mucus buildups include:

• allergies, especially to dairy
• bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
• breathing in very cold or dry air
• inhaling irritating particles such as pollution, smoke, dust, dander, or mold spores
• hormonal changes that occur with aging
• certain medications that can thicken mucus, including birth control pills and high blood pressure medications
• gastroesophageal reflux
• pregnancy
• asthma
• vasomotor rhinitis, having an extra-sensitive nose
• nasal growth or polyps
• irregular nasal cartilage structure
• cystic fibrosis
• non–cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and panbronchiolitis
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly called COPD
• primary ciliary dyskinesia
• hypogammaglobulinemia
• HIV
• organ transplantation
• blood cancers
• issues that disrupt the mechanics of the lungs, such as paralysis, intubation, surgery, or immobilization

The best way to clear a buildup depends on the underlying cause and contributing factors.

Common home care strategies include:

• using an over-the-counter (OTC) saline nasal spray
• taking OTC nondrowsy decongestants or antihistamines
• rubbing a product that contains eucalyptus oil on the chest and throat or inhaling it
• avoiding all allergens, including those in foods
• gently pounding or tapping on the back and chest repeatedly to loosen the mucus
• adding humidity to the air — using a humidifier or taking a warm shower or bath
• applying a warm, moist washcloth over the face
• covering the nose with a scarf in cold weather
• not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke

Many natural products can reduce mucus buildups or treat the respiratory conditions that cause them. Natural remedies with some scientific backing include:

• licorice root
• most berries
• echinacea
• ginseng
• eucalyptus oil

Learn more about how to clear mucus here.

If a buildup of mucus is severe or persistent, it can lead to:

• dehydration
• postnasal drip
• a sore throat
• sinus or nasal pain or pressure
• jaw pain
• dry mouth
• a cough
• lung, nasal, sinus, or throat infections
• digestive problems
• weight loss
• trouble breathing
• reduced oxygen levels and increased circulating carbon dioxide levels
• atelectasis, in which the lungs cannot fully expand or collapse
• respiratory failure
• heart failure

When excessive mucus production or buildups happen with no clear cause, contact a healthcare provider.

Also seek professional care if mucus:

• is very thick
• has a color — healthy mucus is clear
• interferes with breathing
• does not respond to home treatment
• lasts longer than a week or two

Also, talk to a doctor if troublesome mucus occurs with:

• a fever or chills
• unexplained exhaustion
• trouble sleeping
• wheezing or noisy breathing
• breathing changes, such as rapid, shallow breathing or shortness of breath
• a lack of appetite or weight loss
• chest pain or pain when breathing
• pus or blood
• a cough
• nausea and vomiting
• acid reflux
• a severe sore throat
• rash on the chest, throat, or neck
• bluish or pale coloring of the skin, especially around the fingers, toes, and lips
• swelling of the throat, neck, head, feet, or ankles
• confusion or other changes in mental functioning or state

Mucus is key to the functioning of vital organs and the immune system, so the body is continually producing it.

Several health issues can lead to a buildup of mucus or cause the body to produce excess. This can lead to complications.

Usually, OTC products and home care techniques can clear excess mucus. Contact a doctor if a mucus buildup has no clear cause, does not resolve with home care, or occurs alongside any other concerning symptoms.

Mucus in the throat in the morning: causes, symptoms and treatment

Contents

• 1 Why is mucus in the throat in the morning and how to get rid of it?
  • 1.1 What is mucus and how is it formed?
  • 1.2 Causes of mucus in the throat in the morning
  • 1.3 Symptoms and concomitant manifestations of mucus in the throat in the morning
    • 1.3.1 1. Runny nose
    • 1.3.2 2. Cough
    • 1.3. 3 3. Sore throat
    • 1.3.4 4. Fatigue and weakness
    • 1.3.5 5. Difficulties with breathing
  • 1.4 How to relieve mucus in the throat in the morning? 1.4.1 Drink warm liquid 5 1. 4.5 5. Avoid allergens
• 1.5 Preventive measures to prevent mucus in the throat in the morning
• 1.6 Eating habits that contribute to the secretion of mucus in the throat in the morning
• 1.7 Which substances can cause mucus in the throat in the morning due to allergies?
• 1.8 Diagnosis of mucus in the throat in the morning
• 1.9 Treatment of mucus in the throat in the morning
  • 1.9.1 Principles of treatment
  • 1.9.2 Medicines
  • 1.9.3 Prevention
  • 1.9.4 When to see a doctor
• 1.10 Related videos:
• 1.11 Q&A:
  • • from your throat?
    • 1.11.0.2 How to get rid of mucus in the throat in the morning?
    • 1.11.0.3 Are there folk remedies for mucus in the throat?
    • 1.11.0.4 What diseases can be manifested by mucus in the throat?
    • 1.11.0.5 Can mucus in the throat in the morning be a sign of COVID-19?
    • 1.11.0.6 What precautions should be taken to avoid mucus in the throat in the morning?
• 1. 12 Preparations to help get rid of mucus in the throat in the morning
  • 1.12.1 Medicines
  • 1.12.2 Folgotherapy
  • 1.12.3 Folk remedies
  • 1.12.4 Conclusion
• 1.13 When to see a doctor with throat problems?

Do you feel mucus in your throat in the morning? Find out the causes and ways to treat this problem. Tips and tricks from experienced professionals in our article.

The sensation of a lump in the throat and mucus discharge in the morning can be very inconvenient. This symptom can be a sign of various diseases, from a common cold to more serious pathologies of the lungs and esophagus.

In the morning, mucus in the throat may be caused by external factors such as dust or temperature changes. However, a more common cause is respiratory diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc.

Treatment of this symptom directly depends on its underlying cause. For bronchitis and other lung diseases, it may be necessary to prescribe drug therapy, including anti-inflammatory and antitussive drugs. An effective method of treatment can also be the use of special inhalations.

It is important to remember that if the morning mucus in the throat does not disappear for a long time, it is necessary to consult a doctor and undergo diagnostic tests.

Preventive measures can also be taken to prevent morning mucus. It is important to maintain good oral and nasal hygiene, as well as regularly ventilate rooms and avoid smoking.

What is mucus and how is it formed?

Mucus is a gel-like liquid that forms in the mucous membranes of the body, including the throat and nose.

Mucus in the throat may cause discomfort and make breathing difficult. It is formed as a result of the work of the glands located in the mucous membrane, which secrete protein and water. Thus, a thick and viscous mucus is formed.

Often, mucus production increases during sleep and upon waking, which can lead to a sensation of a scratchy throat. This is due to the fact that during sleep, the amount of saliva, which helps lubricate the throat, decreases. In the same period, our organs begin to cleanse the mucous membrane of impurities and microorganisms.

There are many factors that can lead to increased secretion of mucus in the throat. These include allergies, a progressive infection or flu, smoking, and dry indoor air.

• Mucus is a gel-like liquid that forms in mucous membranes.
• Mucus often forms in the throat during sleep and upon awakening.
• Mucus production may be increased by advanced infection, allergies, smoking, and dry indoor air.

Causes of mucus in the throat in the morning

Mucus in the throat in the morning can be caused by various factors, one of which is nasopharyngeal reflux. This is a condition where acid or stomach contents return to the larynx and nasal cavity, causing irritation and mucus in the throat.

Another reason could be allergies. Respiratory allergens such as dust, litter, lint, and other substances can cause a variety of symptoms, including mucus in the throat in the morning.

Concha hypertrophy is another possible cause. This is a rapid increase in tissue volume in the nose that can cause nasal polyps or mucosal nodules. This leads to difficulty in breathing and mucus in the throat.

These reasons are not an exhaustive list, and in any case it is necessary to consult a specialist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Yes

57.14%

No

42.86%

Symptoms and accompanying manifestations of mucus discharge in the throat in the morning

1. Runny nose

A common concomitant manifestation of mucus in the throat in the morning is a runny nose. This is due to the fact that the mucus that has accumulated in the nasal passages at night gradually drains into the throat, causing discomfort and inconvenience.

2. Cough

A possible symptom is cough, which is usually caused by mucus running down the back of the throat. The cough may be dry or with phlegm.

3. Sore throat

The appearance of mucus in the throat in the morning may be accompanied by sore throat and impaired speech sound. Often this is due to irritation of the mucous and nerve endings in the throat.

4. Fatigue and weakness

If you have persistent mucus in your throat in the morning, you may experience fatigue and weakness due to poor quality sleep. It is also possible to reduce immunity and the appearance of other concomitant manifestations.

5. Difficulty breathing

In some cases, if there is mucus in the throat in the morning, there is difficulty in breathing. This may be due to infectious processes in the throat or an allergic reaction to various substances.

How to alleviate the condition of mucus in the throat in the morning?

1. Drink warm liquid

To moisten your throat and loosen mucus, drink hot tea or warm water with honey and lemon. You can also try hot broth or boiling water with ginger and cinnamon.

2. Use throat gargles

Special throat gargles will help reduce mucus-causing bacteria. Use a salt solution or herbal decoction.

3. Apply compresses

A warm compress on your throat will help relieve pain and loosen mucus. Apply a warm, dry bandage to the neck, or a bandage soaked in hot water and a wrung out sponge.

4. Clean nose and throat

Use a saline solution or seawater spray to remove mucus from the nose and throat. It is also helpful to take a deep breath of tea tree, eucalyptus, or peppermint essential oils.

5. Avoid allergens

If you are allergic to any substances, avoid contact with them. It can be house dust, flowering plants or pets. You may need to consult an allergist to determine the allergen and select a treatment.

Preventive measures to prevent mucus in the throat in the morning

When mucus in the throat in the morning, it is recommended to monitor your health and protect your vocal cords. To reduce the likelihood of mucus in the throat, it is worth regularly ventilating the room and humidifying the air.

One way to prevent mucus secretion is to regularly take a hot drink before bed. For example, tea with honey and lemon can reduce the accumulation of mucus in the throat and help get rid of it.

It is also important to maintain a proper diet, eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, do not overeat and avoid night snacks.

1. Hot drink before going to bed
2. Regular ventilation of the room
3. Humidification
4. Healthy lifestyle with a doctor to rule out the possibility of developing a serious illness.

   PreventionResults

   Proper nutrition	Protects the body from harmful effects and improves immunity
   improves indoor air quality and reduces the likelihood of illness
   Humidifies the air	Reduces the accumulation of mucus in the throat and promotes its removal

   Dietary habits that contribute to the secretion of mucus in the throat in the morning

   The secretion of mucus in the throat in the morning can be caused not only by diseases, but also by malnutrition.

   Overeating can lead to digestive problems and excessive mucus production that is secreted down the throat.

   Foods rich in carbohydrates and sugars can also cause an increase in mucus in the throat, since these foods contribute to the formation of mucus in the body.

   Vitamin and mineral deficiency , necessary for the normal functioning of the immune system and digestive system, can lead to a deterioration in the condition of the mucous membranes, which in turn can cause mucus in the throat.

   Eating a lot of fatty and heavy foods can also affect the digestive system and cause mucus in the throat in the morning.

   Foods that promote mucus in the throat in the morningFoodsCauses

   Dairy products	High levels of lactose in foods that cause intolerance and mucus in people
   Coffee	Caffeine content, which can cause mucus in the body
   Wheat and wheat products	High levels of gluten causing intolerance and mucosal deterioration

   Which substances can cause mucus in the throat in the morning due to allergies?

   Just about anything, from pollen and lint to animals and foodstuffs, can cause an allergic reaction in some people. But not all allergens can lead to mucus in the throat.

   The most common allergens that can cause mucus in the throat in the morning are plant pollen, mites, mold and pets. The air we breathe can also be the cause of allergies, such as tobacco smoke, polluted air, and chemicals.

   Other allergens that can cause mucus in the throat include certain foods such as dairy, eggs, wheat, and soybeans.

   In any case, if you constantly feel like you have mucus in your throat in the morning, you may want to get allergy tests to determine the exact cause of your symptom.

   Diagnosis of mucus in the throat in the morning

   Mucus in the throat in the morning can be a sign of various diseases. Only a doctor can diagnose the cause of this phenomenon. However, there are several signs that can help understand the causes of mucus discharge and make it easier to find a diagnosis.

   • Presence of other symptoms – cough, sore throat, nasal congestion.
   • Evaluation of the nature of mucus – color, consistency, quantity.
   • History taking – allergies, chronic diseases, lifestyle.
   • Additional tests – blood and urine tests, sputum analysis, chest x-ray.

   It is critical to seek medical attention if you develop mucus in your throat in the morning. Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

   Treatment of mucus in the throat in the morning

   Principles of treatment

   Mucus in the throat in the morning can be the result of various causes, including allergies, infections and respiratory diseases. Treatment should be directed at eliminating the cause. It is also important to humidify the air in the living room, drink enough water and get enough rest.

   Medicines

   An allergic reaction that causes mucus in the throat in the morning can be treated with antihistamines. Respiratory diseases that cause this symptom may require the use of antibiotics, mucolytics, and sore throat ointments. You can also use folk remedies, such as smoking licorice tincture or hot lemon tea.

   Prevention

   • Avoid contact with allergens that cause a reaction.
   • Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
   • Maintain proper sleep patterns.
   • Humidify indoor air.
   • Drink enough water.
   • Ventilate the room daily.

   When to See a Doctor

   If mucus in the throat in the morning is accompanied by fever, sore throat or chest pressure, see a doctor. It is also worth contacting a doctor if mucus discharge does not stop within a few days, despite treatment.

   Related videos:

   Q&A:

   Why do I cough up mucus from my throat every morning?

   This may be due to various factors: allergies, upper respiratory disease, smoking or dry air in the bedroom. It is recommended to see a doctor to determine the exact cause and get the appropriate treatment.

   How to get rid of mucus in the throat in the morning?

   Try to ventilate the bedroom, maintain optimal humidity (about 50%) and avoid smoking and strong odors. If the cause of the mucus is a disease, see a doctor to get the appropriate treatment.

   Are there folk remedies for mucus in the throat?

   Yes, there are. For example, you can drink a decoction of ginger and honey, add garlic and onions to food, gargle with a decoction of chamomile or soda solution. However, before using any remedy, you should consult your doctor.

   What diseases can be manifested by the secretion of mucus in the throat?

   Such diseases can be bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, diseases of the throat and nose, allergies and others. However, only a doctor can accurately diagnose, so a specialist consultation is necessary.

   Can mucus in the throat in the morning be a sign of COVID-19?

   Yes, one of the symptoms of COVID-19 can be mucus in the throat. If you suspect you have a disease, see your doctor and get tested for coronavirus.

   What precautions should be taken to avoid mucus in the throat in the morning?

   Ventilate the room well, maintain optimal humidity, avoid smoking and strong odors. You should also pay attention to your health, maintain immunity and avoid contact with sick people.

   Medicines to help get rid of mucus in the throat in the morning

   Medicines

   Various medicines can be used to treat mucus in the throat, for example:

   • Mucolytics easier to pass through the throat. For example, Acetylcysteine, Bromhexine.
   • Antihistamines – Combat allergic reactions that may be one of the causes of mucus. For example, Loratadin, Diphenhydramine.
   • Inhalation preparations – help to expand the bronchi and relieve swelling of the mucous membrane. For example, Berodual, Atropine.

   Foil Therapy

   Foil Therapy can be used together with medicines. At the same time, the amount of foil in the diet should be increased, since it is involved in the processes of protein and DNA biosynthesis. There are many foods that contain high amounts of foil: nuts, eggs, beans, broccoli, citrus fruits.

   Folk remedies

   Some people prefer to use folk remedies instead of drugs. For example:

   • Ginger Tea – Helps reduce inflammation and allergic reactions that can cause mucus.
   • Propolis – has antibacterial properties, so it can be used if mucus is caused by a bacterial infection.

   Conclusion

   Regardless of the cause of mucus in the throat, it is always worth seeing a doctor and consulting about the best medicines to treat this problem. Some drugs may have side effects, as well as a number of restrictions on use.

   When should I see a doctor for a sore throat?

   Throat mucus in the morning can be a symptom of various throat and respiratory problems. If this symptom persists for several days and the mucus has an unusual color, texture, or smell, it may be a sign of an infection.

   If the discharge of mucus in the throat continues for several weeks or even months, it may be due to an allergic reaction, asthma, or other medical conditions of the throat and respiratory tract.

   In addition, if the mucus is accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms, such as sore throat, worsening cough, shortness of breath or fever, see a doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms may indicate more serious conditions, including a bacterial infection, sore throat, or even pneumonia.

   If you are immunocompromised or have other risk factors for respiratory problems, you should see your doctor at the first sign of mucus in your throat.

   In general, it is best not to delay a visit to the doctor if you have problems with your throat and respiratory tract. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent more serious problems in the future.

   why do we eat our own snot

   A good thing is not called slime. With this offensive word, we call something shapeless, unpleasant and painful – and meanwhile, snot and sputum, which cause so much inconvenience during illness, serve as one of the main means of protection and treatment. It is no exaggeration to say that we would not be human without this sticky substance. No wonder some scientists even suggest … eating snot to feel better. However, let’s go in order.

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   Food

   Diseases

   Viruses

   Bony fish secrete mucus on the surface of their body: it facilitates sliding and makes it difficult to develop infections. Australian octopuses Octopus kaurna use it to strengthen the walls of their burrows, and hagfish, in case of danger, throw out such an amount of mucus that it is quite capable of causing asphyxia in an attacker. The mucus of earthworms plays an important role in soil formation, and helps dolphins make loud clicks for communication.

   We have her main role – the role of the first line of defense, a barrier that protects the nasopharynx from infections, and the stomach – from its own acid. The next most important function is moisturizing and lubricating, which allows the eyes not to dry out, and food to slip through the esophagus more easily. Mucus lines the surfaces of the lungs and liver, intestines, and genitals. But it is most noticeable, of course, in the upper respiratory tract: it is believed that about a liter of it is secreted in the nasopharynx of a healthy person every day.

   Proteins in the nose

   Normally, this mucus has a color from white-green to brownish. Lymphocytes that fight infections are responsible for whiteness in it, so too light snot can indicate saturation with white blood cells and the development of the disease. Brown-brown shades give pieces of gore due to damage or inflammation of the surface of the nose. But basically, mucus is water: only about five percent of it is made up of other molecules: proteins, salts, lipids, etc.

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   The main of these molecules are mucins, glycoproteins, consisting of a protein base, which is densely studded with long chains and branched “branches” of polysaccharides. These polysaccharides are enveloped in water molecules, which makes the mucins soluble and gives them their characteristic “mucus”. Sugars are attached to the central site, and the initial and final sites allow individual proteins to bind to each other.

   Mucins themselves are rather large molecules, but together they are capable of forming truly gigantic complexes weighing up to 10 million Daltons. For comparison, the mass of a typical protein is tens of thousands of Daltons – for example, hemoglobin has 67 kDa. These molecules are released to the outside and form a dense and sticky network that entangles and traps small particles, bacteria and allergens such as pollen.

   Microscopic cilia on the surface of the epithelial cells oscillate in concert, constantly moving the mucous layer, on which, like on a sticky conveyor, pathogens are carried away – sometimes out into the handkerchief, but mostly into the stomach, where almost everyone dies. The stomach itself is, of course, protected by its own mucus, much thicker than that of the nose.

   Very different mucins

   About 20 mucin-coding genes are known in humans. In general, they are similar, but small differences give proteins different properties that are useful in different parts of the body and under different circumstances. So, normally, mucin MUC5B dominates in the upper respiratory tract. But during illness, the production of MUC5AC increases dramatically, which forms a denser and more viscous mucous network against bacteria. An excess of such MUC5AC mucus in the nasopharynx and bronchi causes a lot of trouble for patients suffering from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

   But there is always enough MUC5AC in the stomach, which provides its cells with sufficient protection from caustic gastric acid. And the main mucin of the intestinal mucus is MUC2, which makes it even thicker in order to control the numerous local microflora. The health of the whole organism depends on these bacteria, and the mucus lining the intestines provides them with all the conveniences for life and growth.

   Moreover, some of them have learned to “bite” the polysaccharide tails from mucins and oxidize them to generate energy. This helps them to successfully compete with any alien microbes that are unable to use such a rich resource – and displace them. No wonder the mucus is so densely populated: according to available estimates, a milliliter of it contains from 100 million to a billion cells.

   And, of course, the mucus itself prevents potential infections from contacting and infecting the cells of the body, serving as a physical and hardly permeable barrier. Mucins prevent microbes from exchanging chemical signals and do not allow the growth of biofilms, which are then especially difficult to remove. Some completely harmless microorganisms, such as the fungus Candida albicans, are just waiting for this: only mucus keeps them from attaching to cells and becoming infected. And some mucins completely deceive the bacteria attacking the body, serving as a false goal. The polysaccharides on their surface mimic the polysaccharides on the cells, and microbes bind to them – and then are removed along with all the mucus.

   Mucus is tasty and synthetic

   We already know that most of the mucus from the nasopharynx is swallowed, from which it is easy to understand that its taste should not be as disgusting as it looks. Professor of the Canadian University of Saskatchewan Scott Napper (Scott Napper) believes that eating snot is even useful because it allows you to “train” the immune system by contact with pathogens, immobilized and half “disarmed” by mucus.