Can the respiratory department help with the problem of phlegm in the throat?

Generally, if phlegm in the throat is caused by a respiratory system disease, the phlegm can be addressed by the respiratory department; if the phlegm is caused by a non-respiratory system disease, the respiratory department usually cannot resolve it. When experiencing symptoms of phlegm in the throat, patients are advised to seek medical attention promptly and choose the appropriate department according to the doctor's recommendations. Detailed analysis is as follows:

When phlegm in the throat is caused by a respiratory system disease, such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, or tuberculosis, respiratory specialists can make a clear diagnosis through detailed medical interviews, physical examinations, and necessary auxiliary tests such as auscultation, blood tests, chest X-rays, and CT scans. They can then develop an appropriate treatment plan to help patients resolve the issue of phlegm in the throat.

If phlegm in the throat is caused by a non-respiratory system disease, such as reflux esophagitis, pharyngitis, or oral diseases, although respiratory doctors can assess how these conditions affect the respiratory system, they may not directly treat these issues. Phlegm caused by these diseases would require gastroenterologists to make a diagnosis through tests such as gastroscopy and provide treatments like acid suppression and prokinetic therapy. Therefore, the respiratory department cannot directly address these issues, and assistance from the gastroenterology department is needed.

In daily life, it is important to maintain good dietary habits and a healthy lifestyle, avoid smoking, and limit exposure to harmful gases to prevent the occurrence of respiratory diseases.