Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Throat Mucus?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Throat mucus is a thick, sticky substance found in the throat and produced by specialized cells. It lines both the airways and the esophagus, and is designed to act as a lubricant and trap for pollutants to prevent them from entering the body. People with medical problems may develop a buildup of mucus, and the presence of excess mucus can be a diagnostic sign used by a physician in the evaluation of a patient.

Many structures inside the body produce mucus. This substance is known for being slimy, somewhat slippery, and sticky. When small particles enter the throat, they are trapped in the mucus and can be expectorated later. This helps protect the body from bacteria, viruses, and particulates that might irritate the esophagus and airways. Mucus also lubricates, keeping tissues flexible and in the case of the esophagus, helping people swallow more easily.

A crossection of the human head, including the throat.
A crossection of the human head, including the throat.

Lack of throat mucus can contribute to difficulty swallowing and may expose people to increased risk of infection. More commonly, people have the opposite problem and start overproducing, usually in response to an immune threat or inflammation. If the throat becomes inflamed or infected, the cells inside can start producing more fluids in an attempt to combat the problem. The patient may develop symptoms like a hacking cough or a sense of constantly having something in the throat.

Excessive throat mucus can cause discomfort.
Excessive throat mucus can cause discomfort.

Patients are usually advised to blow their noses regularly to prevent dripping of nasal mucus into the throat, an issue that can lead to discomfort. Clearing throat mucus can be accomplished with the help of expectorant medications to help loosen the mucus so patients can bring it up when they cough. Medications may also be offered to treat the underlying cause of excess mucus. Generally, suppression is not desired, as the mucus is being produced for a reason, but a mobile suction device can be used by a patient who is having trouble breathing because of throat mucus to suction out some of the fluid.

Recurrent throat mucus problems might require a medical evaluation.
Recurrent throat mucus problems might require a medical evaluation.

People who experience recurring problems with throat mucus may want to see a doctor for evaluation, as they may have a medical issue that is causing chronic inflammation and irritation. The doctor can conduct a physical exam and recommend testing to develop a diagnosis and provide treatment advice for the patient. In the case of people with chronic diseases, it may not be possible to resolve the mucus problems, but some steps can be taken for comfort.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

turquoise

I think the best natural expectorant is lemon juice. When I have excess mucus in my throat, I make myself a large glass of lemonade. The store bought stuff doesn't work though, it has to be made from fresh lemons.

I also gargle with salt water before I go to bed. It helps get rid of mucus and it also kills bacteria and relieves sore throat. I don't like taking medications unnecessarily, so I always try these remedies before I reach for over the counter drugs.

literally45

@fBoyle-- That's an interesting question! I think you voiced something that many people wonder about but no one really asks.

I'm not a doctor or anything but my mom is a nurse and she used to tell me the same thing growing up. The reason is because when you have an infection, the mucus in your throat contains harmful viruses or bacteria. If you swallow it, you will be giving them a second entry into your body.

So when you're sick, you need to carry tissues with you and spit out throat mucus when you get it. Also drink lots of water because it works as a decongestant.

fBoyle

Why am I always told to spit out throat mucus instead of swallowing it? My friends tell me it's bad but they can't tell me why.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A crossection of the human head, including the throat.
      By: pixelcaos
      A crossection of the human head, including the throat.
    • Excessive throat mucus can cause discomfort.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Excessive throat mucus can cause discomfort.
    • Recurrent throat mucus problems might require a medical evaluation.
      By: Alexander Raths
      Recurrent throat mucus problems might require a medical evaluation.
    • Lack of throat mucus can expose people to an increased risk of infection.
      By: Dmitry Naumov
      Lack of throat mucus can expose people to an increased risk of infection.
    • Gargling with warm salt water may help reduce throat mucus.
      By: taka
      Gargling with warm salt water may help reduce throat mucus.
    • Regularly blowing the nose may help prevent the dripping of nasal mucus into the throat.
      By: Ilike
      Regularly blowing the nose may help prevent the dripping of nasal mucus into the throat.