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Phlegm build-up and chesty coughs: How mucolytics can help
Understanding the body’s response to these ailments, and how mucolytics can offer relief, is key to navigating these common, yet disruptive, health issues
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Phlegm helps to pass out irritants trapped in your lungs, but if it builds up, it can cause complications such as difficulty breathing, bronchitis and pneumonia.
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Whenever the cold and flu season comes along, it is common to hear those around you – at home or at the workplace – struggling with the discomforts of a runny nose, chesty cough, and the inevitable mucus and phlegm build-up.
However, did you know that mucus production actually helps the lungs by trapping irritants such as dirt and dust, and infectious particles such as bacteria or viruses? These are then passed out of your system as phlegm.
Dr Wing Hong Chung, resident physician and director at Chung & Ee Medical Clinic, says: “Mucus is the body’s response to either viral or bacterial infections.
“When viruses or bacteria invade, the body counters by producing secretions in the respiratory tract, leading to mucus in our nose and phlegm in our throat and airways. This response, while protective, can cause discomfort and lead to more severe complications if not addressed.”
Early treatment of phlegm and mucus build-up is important, mainly to achieve symptomatic relief and prevent complications, says Dr Chung, as sometimes, thick, hard-to-clear mucus can make it difficult for you to breathe, or could lead to other health issues.
“Without timely intervention, patients risk developing conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia, where mucus build-up can impair lung function,” he adds.
How do mucolytics help to clear phlegm
Mucolytics, a group of medications, play a role in managing respiratory health and preventing the escalation of conditions caused by mucus build-up, says Dr Chung.
“They line the mucus and thin it out to help the patient cough out phlegm and clear the respiratory tract easily,” he adds.
When taking over-the-counter mucolytic medications containing Acetylcysteine, an active ingredient, you may experience more coughing and increased phlegm discharge. This is the Acetylcysteine doing its job, by thinning out the mucus and facilitating its removal in order to ease the congestion in your airways and lungs, says Dr Chung.
Despite the proven benefits of mucolytics like Acetylcysteine, misconceptions persist. Dr Chung points out that not all coughs and colds require mucolytics, especially in cases of dry coughs or mild runny noses.
Dr Chung also clarifies the distinction between expectorant cough medications containing Acetylcysteine which help to expel mucus and phlegm, and antitussive cough mixtures designed to suppress your cough.
“Acetylcysteine focuses on thinning the phlegm, addressing the root cause of the discomfort. It should not be used for a runny nose or a dry cough because it does not serve the purpose of an antihistamine,” he adds.
Patients should also be aware of the proper use and benefits of mucolytics, as with all medication, there is always a risk of adverse reactions such as overdosing or having any allergic reaction, notes Dr Chung. “The prescribed dosage for Acetylcysteine is generally safe to use at home,” he adds.
If you have questions about how to use the medication or suspect you might be allergic to its ingredients, consult your doctor or a pharmacist first.
Fluimucil is available as effervescent tablets and sachets containing Acetylcysteine granules. Check it out at Watsons’ online store
