What does it mean when there is phlegm in the throat and I feel like spitting?

Phlegm in the throat with a sensation of wanting to vomit is initially considered to be associated with a series of conditions such as acute bronchitis, allergic pharyngitis, and laryngeal cysts.

1. Acute Bronchitis

Inflammation affecting tissues such as bronchial glands and lymphatic vessels may lead to hypersecretion, resulting in accumulation of secretions locally. This prompts the central nervous system to trigger coughing in order to expel excess mucus from the airways. Some patients with severe coughing may even experience secondary symptoms such as nausea and dry heaving.

2. Allergic Pharyngitis

After exposure to allergens in the throat, a local non-specific immune response can be triggered, leading to symptoms such as coughing and sputum production. In some patients, intense spasm and contraction of the smooth muscles in the throat area may result in accompanying symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

3. Laryngeal Cyst

A cyst in the larynx can repeatedly irritate adjacent epithelial and mucosal tissues, thereby inducing reflexive coughing and expectoration. During severe coughing episodes, some patients experience a significant increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which easily stimulates gastrointestinal tissues such as the stomach and intestines, leading to other atypical symptoms such as nausea and acid reflux.

Other conditions such as laryngeal polyps and small cell lung cancer may also present with symptoms of phlegm in the throat and an urge to vomit. Patients are advised to seek medical evaluation promptly and follow the principle of early detection and early treatment to avoid delays in diagnosis and management.