As winters approach, one of the things that bother people the most is cold, cough and nasal congestion. When mucus accumulates and blocks the nose and throat, we become irritated by persistent cough. But the human body is not called amazing for nothing; Every organ and every process has a role to play, and the mucus that bothers you is actually fighting to protect you.
Our body produces about 0.94 to 1.89 liters of mucus every day, which protects organs like lungs, stomach and eyes from drying out. When there is an infection or allergy, the amount of mucus increases. There is a special reason behind this. This thick liquid substance is produced to prevent dryness in moist parts of the body and to remove dirty particles or germs coming from outside. Mucus is an important part of our immune system, but sometimes excess mucus production can be a sign of illness. So let us know how mucus is formed and when it should be taken seriously.
How is mucus formed?
According to Medical News Today, mucus is composed primarily of water and a gel-like substance called mucin, which has the properties of a protein. Goblet cells and submucosal glands in the body produce it. Mucus also contains protein, fat, salt and immune molecules which increase immunity. The best part is that mucus removes small particles like dust, smoke, pollution, viruses, bacteria and fungus. In fact, on the surface of the lungs there are tiny hair-like structures called cilia. These cilia move together and push particles trapped in the mucus upward. The mucus then reaches the back of the throat, and most of it is swallowed, broken down by acid, and passed out of the body. Mucus is very important for the body because it performs many important functions in the human body. It humidifies inhaled air, protects against infection, and helps maintain the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Why does mucus increase during colds and allergies?
According to scientists, when pollutants, dust or allergens are present in the air, goblet cells and glands start producing more mucus. This is the reason why mucus increases during cold, flu or allergy. During infection, mucus also becomes thick as it becomes clogged with immune cells, dead bacteria, and other particles. Histamine triggers vasodilation and mucus secretion, causing nasal congestion, a feeling of heaviness in the throat, or coughing.
When does the amount of mucus increase in the body?
The body continuously produces and expels mucus. This process continues 24/7 without any interruption. However, there are some situations when its production increases. These situations include…
exposure to allergies or pollution
Respiratory diseases (viral, bacterial, or fungal)
exposure to very cold or dry air
hormonal changes or aging
pregnancy or asthma
Side effects of some medicines
gastroesophageal reflux
Lung diseases (COPD or bronchiectasis)
What can happen if there is too much mucus?
Doctors say that if mucus accumulates for a long time, in severe cases, it can reduce oxygen levels and lead to lung problems. The risk of mucus becoming too thick can also increase, and may lead to: Sore or burning throat
difficulty breathing
sinus pain or pressure
persistent cough or shortness of breath
digestive problems
weight loss or fatigue
frequent infections
In severe cases, lung damage or heart failure
Easy ways to clear mucus
Although mucus does not naturally accumulate much, if mucus accumulation increases due to cold or allergies, you can try some methods to clear it.
use saline nasal spray
steam hot water
take non-drowsy antihistamines or decongestants
Steam eucalyptus oil or rub it on your chest
Use a humidifier to increase moisture in the air
take a bath with hot or lukewarm water
cover your nose with a scarf in cold wind
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
stay hydrated
When to see a doctor
The mucus is usually clear or pale white, but if its color changes or it is not coming out, you should consult a doctor. If this problem persists for a long time, you have symptoms like fever, chest pain, or weight loss, do not ignore it.
