Throwing up phlegm can be a disconcerting symptom. While it can be alarming, this often stems from the body’s natural defense mechanisms managing excess mucus. Understanding the underlying causes and common triggers can provide clarity.
What Phlegm Is and How It’s Produced
Phlegm is a type of mucus produced in the lower respiratory tract, including the lungs and throat. It differs from the thinner, more watery mucus found in the nose and sinuses. It is typically thicker and stickier, serving a protective role.
The body constantly produces mucus to keep airways moist and trap inhaled particles. Specialized cells create mucin, the main component of mucus. This sticky substance, primarily composed of water and proteins, acts as a barrier, trapping dust, allergens, bacteria, and viruses before they reach deeper lung tissues. Tiny hair-like structures called cilia then move this mucus, along with trapped debris, up towards the throat to be swallowed or expelled.
Common Conditions Leading to Excess Phlegm
Many factors and medical conditions can increase phlegm production as a protective response. Respiratory infections, such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or sinusitis, are frequent causes. During an infection, the body produces more mucus to trap and remove pathogens. This mucus can become thicker and change color as immune cells fight the infection.
Allergies also contribute to excess phlegm. When allergens like pollen or pet dander are encountered, the immune system releases chemicals causing inflammation and increased mucus production in the airways. This can result in thick, sticky phlegm, often accompanied by post-nasal drip. Chronic lung conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis also cause increased phlegm due to ongoing inflammation. In asthma, airways can swell and narrow, leading to more mucus production.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, can irritate the throat and increase mucus production. Environmental irritants like smoke and pollution also stimulate the respiratory system to produce more mucus as a defense. Smoking, in particular, paralyzes the cilia, leading to mucus buildup and a chronic cough.
Mechanisms of Vomiting Phlegm
Throwing up phlegm often results from several mechanisms rather than a direct stomach issue. A common cause is severe coughing spells that bring up significant phlegm. Intense coughing can trigger the gag reflex, leading to vomiting. The volume of mucus expelled can also induce nausea and vomiting.
Another frequent pathway is post-nasal drip, where excess mucus from the nose and sinuses drains down the throat. This constant dripping can irritate the throat and, when swallowed, can upset the stomach, causing nausea and sometimes vomiting. This is particularly noticeable when lying down, as mucus tends to accumulate more readily. In some cases, infected mucus draining into the stomach can also contribute to gastrointestinal upset.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While throwing up phlegm is often linked to temporary conditions, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent symptoms or notice changes in your phlegm. For instance, bright yellow or green phlegm, especially if persistent for more than a few days, might indicate a bacterial infection.
More concerning colors include red, pink, brown, or black phlegm, as these can signal blood or a more serious underlying condition. Seek medical attention if phlegm is accompanied by difficulty breathing, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, a high fever, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve within a week or two. These symptoms could indicate conditions requiring prompt medical assessment and treatment.