Yes, you can swallow mucus.
According to Dr. Boucher, it doesn't matter whether you spit out or swallow mucus that you cough up from your chest. This includes phlegm, which is another term for mucus.
Understanding Mucus and Its Role
Mucus, also known as phlegm when it comes from the chest, is a normal bodily fluid. Its primary functions include:
- Moisturizing: Mucus keeps the airways and other mucous membranes moist.
- Trapping: It traps bacteria, viruses, and other foreign particles to prevent them from entering the body.
- Clearing: It assists the body in clearing away trapped substances by coughing them up or moving them along.
Swallowing Mucus: What Happens?
When you swallow mucus, it goes down into your stomach where stomach acid and enzymes help break it down. This effectively gets rid of any trapped foreign particles and poses no harm to the body.
Managing Mucus Production
While swallowing mucus is safe, here are some ways to manage it effectively if you feel it is excessive:
How to loosen thick mucus:
- Steam Shower: Take a hot, steamy shower to help loosen and moisten mucus.
- Humidifier: Use a humidifier in your room to keep the air moist, making it easier to cough up mucus.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Swallowing Mucus | Generally safe as it is broken down in the stomach. |
| Excessive Mucus | Can be managed using steam showers or humidifiers to loosen it |
