Phlegm refers to mucus formed in the respiratory tract. The most common reason for the formation of mucus is either a viral infection or a bacterial infection leading to inflammation of the respiratory sinuses. Phlegm is typically slimy, thick, transparent and tasteless mucus, though it can be yellowish or greenish in color, especially if infected.
In some cases, phlegm can be stained with blood, indicative of an internal bleeding, either in the sinuses or the respiratory tract.
What Causes Phlegm After Eating?
In individuals suffering from chronic sinusitis, the linings of the throat and the internal sinuses are chronically inflamed. As a result, the linings produce excessive mucus in an attempt to protect themselves from infection. In general, this mucus remains impacted around the lining of the throat and the sinuses. This mucus gets released in the form of phlegm or a post nasal drip in cases of acute exacerbations or after eating hot or spicy food.
Hot and spicy foods are typically considered to result in vasodilatation of the blood vessels.
Natural Remedies To Stop Phlegm After Eating
Phlegm after eating is clearly linked to sinusitis or a sore throat. While individuals with chronic sinusitis and chronic pharangitis are more likely to complain of phlegm after eating, individuals with acute inflammation may also temporarily suffer from this symptom. The treatment of this symptom is directed towards treating the underlying cause i.e. sinusitis and sore throat.
- Steam inhalation is considered to help in softening the nasal mucosa and aiding in the release of impacted mucus. Regular steam inhalation twice a day helps in preventing accumulation of mucus and prevents sudden release of phlegm after eating.
- Ensure that you drink plenty of water. Drinking about 6 to 8 ounces of water each day helps clear the throat, flush off the toxins and helps in reducing inflammation in general.
- Add a table spoon of turmeric to a glass of warm milk and consume thrice a day. Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing inflammation, while milk has soothing effect on the throat. Milk is also loaded with proteins and vitamins which help boost immunity and fight sinusitis. Experts recommend consuming dairy food products with lower fat content, since milk with high fat content can further lead to thickening of the mucus.
- Experts also recommend lifestyle correction. Stop smoking as the inhaling of smoke results in irritation of the posterior wall of the throat. This in turn results in inflammation and formation of phlegm. Further, inhalation of smoke has a detrimental effect on the overall immunity, making the individual more prone to develop sore throat and sinusitis. Avoid consumption of caffeine drinks. Caffeine can lead to dehydration which in turn aggravates sinusitis and sore throat.
- Squeeze a lime and add a table spoon of honey and consume this thrice a day. Lime is loaded with Vitamin C which boosts the immunity, while honey has strong anti bacterial properties and a soothing effect on the inflamed throat mucosa.