Mucus from the lungs (also called phlegm) has the important function of trapping and removing unwanted substances from the airways.
However, in chronic smokers and persons with lung disease, this cleaning function of the lungs becomes impaired. Hence, mucus accumulates in the lungs and becomes stickier and yellowish. This can make it difficult for the person to breathe.
Here are some tips to better cough out phlegm:
1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to make the phlegm less sticky and easier to cough out.
2. Take a mucolytic, such as carbocisteine or ambroxol capsules. These medicines act by changing the character of the phlegm.
3. Coughing is more effective when a person sits up straight and bends slightly forward. While coughing, you can support and place your elbows on the armrests. On the other hand, coughing is least effective when lying down.
4. Consider steam inhalation. Boil two cups of clean water and place them in a cooking pan or large bowl. Place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl to accumulate and inhale the steam. Another technique is to open the hot shower in your bathroom until steam is formed. Then breathe in the hot moisture in the air, which can help loosen the mucus in the lungs.
5. You can try the back clapping technique. Using your hands, form a triangular “cup” with your curved fingers and thumb. Then clap the person’s back gently so it will make a soft popping sound. Pat the upper and middle portion of the person’s back to help loosen sticky phlegm.
6. Just a warning: To protect yourself against back strain, try having small coughs instead of a single high-pressure cough. If you feel a sneeze coming, try to hold on to a chair, table or wall to support your back from the sudden rise in abdominal pressure.
7. Sleep with an extra pillow under your head. This will allow gravity to drain mucus from the nasal passages, if there are any.
8. Finally, see your doctor to find out what is causing your cough. If you are a smoker, then it is about time you quit smoking. Remember to keep your lungs clean and healthy, and you’ll breathe easier
