How to cough up phlegm if you can't spit it out
Apr 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
If a patient is unable to actively cough up phlegm, measures such as daily adjustments, physical therapy, and the use of bronchodilators can help facilitate sputum clearance. Drinking more water helps thin the mucus, making it easier to expel. Breathing exercises involving regulated breathing techniques can also make coughing up phlegm easier. The patient may require further examinations to determine the nature and cause of the sputum and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Under normal circumstances, if a person is unable to expel phlegm effectively, methods to help cough up sputum include daily self-management, physical therapy, and use of bronchodilators. Specific approaches are as follows:
1. Daily Self-Management
Drinking plenty of water helps thin the mucus, making it easier to cough out. Practicing breathing exercises can also help patients learn proper breathing techniques, enabling deeper breaths and facilitating the expulsion of phlegm.
2. Physical Therapy
Using a suction device can help remove phlegm, but this should be done under medical supervision. Chest massage or vibration therapy may also help loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up.
3. Use of Bronchodilators
Under medical guidance, bronchodilators such as terbutaline aerosol, salbutamol aerosol, or terbutaline sulfate aerosol can be used to dilate the airways, helping to make phlegm easier to expel.
It is important to note that if a patient is unable to cough up phlegm, further evaluation may be needed to determine the nature and underlying cause of the mucus, and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. It is recommended to seek timely medical care and follow the doctor’s advice for treatment.
