Overproduction of Mucus: What to Do

Mucus is an important part of our respiratory system, trapping different irritants, pathogens, and debris that can harm your lungs. However, when your body produces too much mucus, especially in the lungs, it can lead to health issues such as difficulty breathing, chronic coughing, and an increased risk of infections.
In this article, we’ll explore:

• What is mucus overproduction?
• What causes the overproduction of mucus in lungs?
• Effects of excess mucus in the lungs
• What causes the overproduction of mucus in the throat?
• Managing excess mucus
• What to do if the overproduction of mucus is persistent and recurring?

Mucus overproduction occurs when the glands in the airways produce more mucus than you need. While mucus protects and lubricates the respiratory system, too much mucus can obstruct airways, making it harder to breathe. ^[1]
TO READ: How to get rid of mucus in the lungs.

There are several factors that could lead to excessive mucus production in the lungs:

1. Chronic Respiratory Conditions
   • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can cause excessive mucus due to inflammation and damage to the airways. ^[2]
   • Bronchiectasis and the permanent widening of the airways can lead to excess mucus.
   • Asthma can cause mucus overproduction as a response to airway inflammation and irritation.
2. Colds, the flu, or sinus infections can trigger increased mucus production as the body works to flush out harmful bacteria or viruses. ^[3]
3. Environmental irritants, pollutants, and toxins can irritate the airways, which, in turn, can lead to more mucus production. Cigarette smoke can also stimulate the glands to produce excessive mucus. ^[4]
4. Allergens like pollen, dust, and even pet dander can irritate the lungs, which can result in mucus overproduction.
5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can cause the lungs to produce more mucus as a protective response.
6. Genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis can cause thick, sticky mucus to gather in the lungs. ^[5]
7. Poor airway clearance can make mucus thicker and more challenging to clear, leading to a buildup in the lungs.

Excess mucus in the lungs can lead to:

• Obstructed airways, making breathing more difficult.
• Chronic coughing as the body attempts to clear the airways.
• Increased susceptibility to infections because of the trapped bacteria and viruses.
• Reduced quality of life from respiratory discomfort and fatigue.

Beyond the causes listed above, these factors can lead to overproduction of mucus in the throat:

• Dehydration—Not being hydrated enough can thicken mucus, prompting your body to produce more to maintain moisture levels.
• Dietary Factors—Certain foods, like dairy, can sometimes thicken mucus, though this varies between individuals. ^[7]

If you’re dealing with excessive mucus in the lungs, consider trying the following strategies:

1. Hydration. Drinking water can help thin mucus, making it easier to get up and out of the body.
2. Avoid Triggers. Minimize exposure to environmental irritants, allergens, and pollutants.
3. Airway Clearance Therapy. These devices can help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, which works to reduce your risk of infections and potentially improve lung function.
4. Lifestyle Changes. Quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and doing regular physical activity can improve respiratory health. ^[8]

If your overproduction of mucus is persistent and recurring, it could be a sign that something else is happening. Here are a few guidelines to consider as you work to manage symptoms more effectively.

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Professional
   • Your primary care provider can review your symptoms and your medical history. They may even be able to perform tests to identify the root cause.
   • Persistent mucus overproduction can indicate chronic conditions like bronchiectasis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Identifying these early can improve treatment outcomes.
2. Address Underlying Conditions
   Treat chronic conditions that may contribute to mucus overproduction, including allergies. Be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations and ask questions as they come up.
3. Consider Lifestyle Changes
   • Eat foods that help reduce mucus in the lungs, including anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
   • Get regular exercise to promote better lung function.
4. Use Airway Clearance Techniques
   Airway clearance techniques can help clear mucus from the lungs and improve your breathing and quality of life.
5. Watch for Red Flags
   Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
   • Blood in the mucus.
   • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
   • Persistent fever.
   • Significant weight loss or fatigue.

How SmartVest Can Help

For individuals living with chronic respiratory conditions, managing excessive mucus is crucial for maintaining healthy airways. This is where SmartVest can help.
SmartVest uses high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) technology to help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs. By targeting mucus at its source, SmartVest improves airway clearance, reduces the risk of infections, and helps you breathe more comfortably.

Learn more about SmartVest.

Take Control of Mucus Overproduction

If your overproduction of mucus is persistent and recurring, it can disrupt your day-to-day life, but with the right strategies and tools, you can take control of your symptoms. The SmartVest Airway Clearance System is a powerful ally for anyone facing chronic mucus buildup due to respiratory conditions.

Want to learn more about how SmartVest can help you breathe easier? Request an information packet delivered right to your door! Share it with your doctor to see how airway clearance therapy can fit into your health routine.

Resources

[1] American Lung Association. “Understanding Mucus in Your Lungs” Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/blog/lungs-mucus
[2] Mayo Clinic. “COPD” Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/syc-20353679
[3] National Library of Medicine. “The interaction between respiratory pathogens and mucus” Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4752725/
[4] Temple Health. “All of Your Questions About Mucus, Answered” Retrieved from https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/what-to-know-about-mucus
[5] Mayo Clinic. “Cystic fibrosis” Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cystic-fibrosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353700
[6] National Library of Medicine. “The interaction between respiratory pathogens and mucus” Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4752725/
[7] American Lung Association. “Understanding Mucus in Your Lungs” Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/blog/lungs-mucus
[8] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Association. “How to Keep Your Lungs Healthy” https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/lungs/lung-health