Many people feel mucus or phlegm stuck in the throat all day. You clear your throat repeatedly, cough, or feel something sticky that never goes away.
Doctors often treat the symptoms, but the real causes are sometimes overlooked. Your body normally produces mucus to protect the respiratory system, trapping dust, germs, and irritants. But when production increases, it can accumulate in the throat and become uncomfortable.
Below are 4 common hidden reasons for constant phlegm.
Post-Nasal Drip (Mucus From the Nose)
One of the most frequent causes is post-nasal drip. This happens when excess mucus from the nose and sinuses slowly drains down the back of the throat.
This can happen due to:
-
Sinus infections
-
Seasonal allergies
-
Cold or flu
-
Nasal inflammation
When this mucus drips into the throat, it creates the feeling that something is stuck that you can’t swallow away.
Typical signs:
-
Constant throat clearing
-
Feeling of mucus stuck in the throat
-
Hoarse voice
-
Mild cough
Acid Reflux (Silent GERD)
Many people with throat mucus actually have silent acid reflux, also called GERD or LPR.
When stomach acid rises into the throat, it irritates the lining. The body responds by producing extra mucus to protect the tissue.
Symptoms may include:
-
Mucus after eating
-
Frequent throat clearing
-
Bitter taste in mouth
-
Lump sensation in throat
Sometimes there is no heartburn, which is why people don’t realize reflux is the cause.
Continued on next page:
