If you have symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, and blood in your sputum along with chronic phlegm, you should seek medical help immediately. Excessive consumption of milk and dairy products can cause thick phlegm in some people. Seeking timely treatment can help prevent problems like sinusitis.
Phlegm is naturally produced in our respiratory tract to maintain moisture and prevent dirt. However, it is produced excessively due to the following reasons:
Infections: Viral or bacterial infections such as colds, influenza (flu), bronchitis, and pneumonia are the main causes of phlegm.
Allergies: Inhaling dust particles, pollen, and pet dander irritates the lungs and causes the body to produce more phlegm.
Smoking: The chemicals in tobacco damage the tiny hairs called ‘cilia’ in the lungs. This affects the ability to expel phlegm and causes it to build up inside.
Asthma: In people with asthma, the airways swell and produce excess phlegm, leading to shortness of breath.
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Stomach acid reflux can cause irritation in the throat and a feeling similar to a cough.
Pollution:
