Doctor shares simple hack for removing stubborn phlegm in seconds

11 January 2024 , 12:39

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This easy trick can shift persistent phlegm caused by colds and flu (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

It seems almost impossible to dodge the common cold or flu during the winter months, and returning to work with the pesky symptoms can be a challenge for many people.

Respiratory illness symptoms often include constant sneezing, a runny nose, and a persistent cough, but trying to talk with phlegm on your throat is beyond frustrating. Fortunately, a doctor has shared a 'simple' trick to ease stubborn phlegm within seconds, and many were shocked to discover that it actually works.

Taking to TikTok, Dr Jun Reyes outlined the "very effective" technique for removing mucus from the throat and upper chest area. To start the relieving process, begin with diaphragmatic breathing by inhaling through your nose for five-seconds, feeling your abdomen expand. Then, hold your breath for around five to seven-seconds.

Next - using a glass of water with a straw - exhale slowly and softly through the straw, making bubbles in the water. Dr Reyes said: "This will help create moisture in the throat and help loosen the mucus."

The final step is to perform the huff cough, which involves forcing the breath out of your mouth in one quick burst of air. "Exhale forcefully, but slowly, in a continuous exhalation to move mucus from the smaller to the larger airways," explains Dr Reyes.

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The VCU Medical Center suggests keeping the back of your throat open while carrying out the huff cough. Dr Reyes recommends repeating this process around three to five times, until it has cleared.

The video has amassed nearly 80K likes, and followers rushed to the comments to share their reaction to the health hack. One user penned: "I just did it and was able to get out this phlegm that has been stuck in the back of my throat for months!"

While a second shared: "I have phlegm and I just tried this and it just removed some of it… great!" A third wrote: "This literally worked. I got a nasty cough with phlegm and it got rid of a lot of it."

The NHS has also shared other ways to remove a build up of phlegm - which is also known as catarrh - this includes:

• Drink plenty of water
• Sip ice cold water when you need to clear your throat, rather than coughing or swallowing
• Use a humidifier to help loosen the mucus in your nose and throat
• Use an extra pillow in bed so you sleep in a more upright position, rather than lying flat
• Try gargling with salt water
• Rinsing your nose with salt water

Freya Hodgson