How to Clean the Lungs from Excess Phlegm

Ozeku Health – Mucus or phlegm that accumulates in the lungs indicates an inflammatory condition in the respiratory tract. If phlegm is not removed, lung performance will be disrupted.

However, you don’t need to worry. There are a number of ways to clean the lungs from phlegm that can be done.

The accumulation of phlegm in the respiratory tract, including the lungs, is actually a form of defense against infections caused by pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and others. Therefore, when phlegm is removed, breathing will usually become more relieved.

The best way is to avoid exposure to toxins from cigarette smoke and air pollution. Apart from that, you can also practice certain healthy lifestyles.

For more details, here’s how to remove mucus from the lungs.

1. Perform postural drainage

This practice can improve breathing and help treat or prevent lung infections. This method is done by lying in different positions to remove mucus from the lungs.

Postural drainage techniques differ depending on position and include the following:

– On the back

Lie on the floor or on a bed, then place a pillow under your hips making sure your chest is lower than your hips.

Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Each exhale should take twice as long as the inhalation, which is called a 1:2 exhale. Continue, for a few minutes.

– On the side

Lie on your side, resting your head on your arm or pillow. Place a pillow under your hips. Do a 1:2 breathing pattern and continue for a few minutes. Repeat on other side.

– In the stomach

Place a pile of pillows on the floor, place your stomach on the pillow. Keep hips above chest. Then fold your arms under your head for support. Do a 1:2 breathing pattern and continue for a few minutes.

2. Use a humidifier

Another way to clean the lungs from phlegm is to use a humidifier. Dry air can irritate the nose and throat, causing more phlegm to produce as a lubricant. A humidifier in the bedroom can help improve sleep quality, help clear the nose, and prevent sore throats.

3. Steam therapy

This technique helps clear the airways and expel phlegm. People with lung disease may notice their symptoms worsen in cold or dry air. Steam can add warmth and moisture to the air, improve breathing, and thin phlegm.

4. Inhale with a damp cloth

Wet a cloth with hot water, then inhale the steam that comes out. Moistening a cloth in hot water and inhaling on it can help restore moisture to the nose and throat. Also, heat will help relieve pain and pressure. This is also a way to clean the lungs from phlegm.

5. Keep your head in an elevated position

If phlegm accumulation is bothersome, then try sleeping in a higher position.

6. Use a nasal spray

Saline spray or an irrigator can help clear mucus and allergens from the nose and sinuses. Look for a sterile spray that contains only sodium chloride, and use sterile or distilled water when blowing your nose.

7. Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus oil has been used for years to reduce coughing and mucus production. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a diffuser or warm water for a bath can help rid your nose of excess mucus.

8. Drink enough water

One of the most recommended ways by doctors to get rid of mucus is to drink lots of water. This is because a hydrated body will boost the body’s immune system so that it helps heal inflammation while suppressing phlegm production in the lungs.

Those are a number of ways to clean the lungs from phlegm that are easy to do. (Source : CNN)