After surgery, phlegm often accumulates in the airways. This is a common and often uncomfortable occurrence. Understanding its causes and effective management is crucial for a smooth recovery. Proactive clearance helps prevent complications and promotes lung health.
Understanding Post-Surgery Phlegm
Phlegm often accumulates in the lungs following surgery due to several physiological changes. General anesthesia affects normal lung function, decreasing the functional residual capacity (FRC) of the lungs by as much as 50%. Anesthesia also reduces the activity of cilia, tiny hair-like structures lining the airways responsible for moving mucus out of the lungs.
The presence of an intubation tube during surgery can irritate the airway, leading to increased mucus production. This tube can also hinder the natural mucociliary clearance mechanism, slowing mucus movement out of the lungs by approximately 80%.
Reduced mobility after an operation, often due to pain or weakness, further contributes to phlegm buildup because movement helps expand the lungs and clear secretions. Pain medications can also suppress the natural cough reflex, making it harder to expel accumulated phlegm.
Practical Strategies for Clearance
Several strategies help clear phlegm after surgery. These techniques restore natural clearing mechanisms affected by surgery and anesthesia. Implementing them enhances respiratory recovery.
Deep breathing exercises
Deep breathing exercises are a key part of post-surgical lung care. Often guided by an incentive spirometer, they encourage full lung expansion, helping dislodge mucus and prevent atelectasis. To perform, sit upright, inhale slowly and deeply through the nose, hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through pursed lips. Repeating this exercise frequently, such as 10 times every hour while awake, is beneficial.
Controlled coughing
Controlled coughing is another technique for expelling phlegm without causing undue strain on surgical sites. Sit upright, take a slow, deep breath, then perform two short, sharp coughs while slightly leaning forward. Supporting the incision with a pillow or hands during a cough reduces discomfort and protects the surgical area. This bracing stabilizes the wound, making the cough more effective and less painful.
Hydration
Staying well-hydrated is an effective way to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear from the airways. Drinking plenty of fluids like water, herbal teas, or broths helps maintain moisture in the throat and lungs. Adequate hydration also supports overall healing processes, aids circulation, and helps the body transport nutrients to healing tissues.
Early mobilization
Early mobilization, or getting up and moving around as soon as medically advised, is recommended. Walking and gentle movement help expand the lungs, improve circulation, and activate the body’s natural mechanisms for clearing mucus. Even short walks can reduce the risk of respiratory complications and promote lung healing. Gradually increasing activity levels as tolerated contributes to recovery.
Humidifier use
Using a humidifier can help moisten the air, which moisturizes the airways and thins respiratory secretions. This can make coughing more comfortable and productive.
Pain management
Effective pain management enables patients to perform breathing and coughing exercises. When pain is controlled, individuals are more likely to take deep breaths and cough effectively, which are crucial for preventing phlegm buildup and potential infections. Patients should communicate their pain levels to their healthcare team to ensure adequate pain relief.
Proper positioning
Proper positioning also aids in phlegm clearance. Sitting upright in a chair or bed, rather than slumping, allows for better lung expansion and facilitates mucus movement. Some individuals may find side-lying positions helpful for draining specific areas of the lungs, utilizing gravity to assist in clearance.
Recognizing When to Get Help
While phlegm after surgery is common, certain signs indicate a need for medical attention. Persistent or worsening fever, especially if it exceeds 38°C (100.4°F), can suggest an infection. Chills alongside a fever are also a concerning indicator.
Changes in the color or consistency of phlegm warrant attention. If phlegm becomes thick yellow, green, or rust-colored, or if it contains blood, it could signal a bacterial infection. Increasing shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, along with a rapid heart rate, are serious symptoms that require immediate evaluation. Chest pain or a worsening cough that is not productive of phlegm are additional red flags.