What causes sore throat and excessive phlegm, and what should I do about it?

Generally, sore throat and excessive phlegm may be caused by factors such as overuse of the voice, dry air, acute pharyngitis, acute bronchitis, or chronic sinusitis. Patients can choose appropriate management methods—such as general care, medication, or surgery—based on their specific conditions. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Voice overuse: Prolonged loud talking or shouting can lead to congestion and swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa and increased glandular secretion. Reduce speaking frequency, avoid shouting, drink plenty of warm water, and consider sucking on additive-free throat lozenges to relieve discomfort.

2. Dry air: Low environmental humidity causes rapid moisture loss from the throat's mucous membrane, making it more susceptible to irritation, pain, and increased secretions. Use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity, place bowls of water indoors to improve air moisture, and wear a mask outdoors to reduce irritation.

3. Acute pharyngitis: Viral or bacterial infection of the throat leads to mucosal inflammation, causing pain and increased phlegm. Under medical guidance, patients may take Lanqin Oral Liquid, Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets, or Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution, and should maintain a light diet avoiding spicy foods.

4. Acute bronchitis: Infection-induced inflammation of the bronchial mucosa increases secretions that form phlegm, irritating the throat and causing pain. Under medical guidance, medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Tablets, or Acetylcysteine Effervescent Tablets may be taken. Adequate rest and avoidance of fatigue are also important.

5. Chronic sinusitis: Inflammatory secretions from the sinuses drain backward into the throat, irritating the mucosa and leading to pain and excess phlegm. Under medical supervision, treatments may include Clarithromycin Sustained-Release Tablets, Mometasone Furoate Nasal Spray, or Eucalyptus Citrus Pinene Enteric-Coated Soft Capsules. In severe cases, functional endoscopic sinus surgery may be required.

Maintaining throat health starts with daily habits: keep a regular schedule to boost immunity and avoid irritants like tobacco and alcohol. Dress appropriately for weather changes to prevent respiratory infections. If symptoms persist for more than one week without improvement, seek timely medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.