How does mucus form

Many natural products can reduce mucus buildups or treat the respiratory conditions that cause them. Natural remedies with some scientific backing include :. Learn more about how to clear mucus here. When excessive mucus production or buildups happen with no clear cause, contact a healthcare provider. Mucus is key to the functioning of vital organs and the immune system, so the body is continually producing it. Several health issues can lead to a buildup of mucus or cause the body to produce excess.

This can lead to complications. Usually, OTC products and home care techniques can clear excess mucus. Contact a doctor if a mucus buildup has no clear cause, does not resolve with home care, or occurs alongside any other concerning symptoms. Excess phelgm and mucus can cause congestion, coughing, and problems breathing.

Learn about 20 simple home remedies that can reduce mucus and phlegm. Mucus serves an important function, but should it be in the stool?

This symptom can sometimes signal a bacterial infection, fissure, or obstruction…. Mucus in the chest can cause discomfort and symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, sleep difficulties, and a sore throat. We describe simple, natural…. Coughing up white mucus may indicate an underlying respiratory condition, such as asthma or COPD, or an infection.

Learn when to see a doctor about…. Black mucus or phlegm is usually a sign of an underlying condition, smoking, or exposure to pollutants. It may clear up on its own, but it sometimes….

Mucus: Where does it come from and how is it formed? Where it comes from What it is How it forms Health issues Clearing mucus Complications Contacting a doctor Summary A person might think that their body only makes mucus in response to illness, allergens, or irritants. Where mucus comes from. Share on Pinterest Image credit: Getty Images. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Cameron White, M. Causes Treatment Mucus vs.

What causes overproduction of mucus in your throat? What can you do about an overproduction of mucus in your throat? Read this next. Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, M. Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, M. Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, MD. Poststreptococcal Disorder. Can Marshmallows Soothe a Sore Throat? The Facts. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Sore Throat vs. Strep Throat: How to Tell the Difference. They then mistakenly take antihistamines , which end up drying out the nose and making thick mucus worse.

With a bacterial sinus infection you may be able to take a doctor-prescribed antibiotic to treat the cause, but with viral colds the best you can do is correctly treat symptoms, so you want to be sure you have the right match.

Any option is fine, says Ellis. Since the mucus may be infected, make sure you follow basic hygiene after blowing your nose: Carefully dispose of the facial tissue and wash your hands. Also, avoid spitting out your mucus in public. Mucus is so important that your body makes about a quart of the stuff on a normal day. Learn how to live with it when it is out of balance, and you'll be more comfortable until the flow goes back to normal. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Health Topics. Health Tools. By Madeline R. Reviewed: September 12,