Feeling as though phlegm is stuck in your throat can be uncomfortable, and it’s understandable to feel concerned if it keeps happening. You might keep swallowing or clearing your throat, but the feeling keeps coming back.
The good news is that this sensation usually has a straightforward explanation, and there’s plenty you can do to help it settle.
Why does phlegm feel stuck in my throat?
Phlegm is thick mucus made by your airways. It traps unwanted particles and keeps the lining of your throat moist. Extra mucus can leave your throat feeling coated and make you want to swallow or clear your throat more often.
Mucus can become more noticeable when the lining of your nose or throat is irritated. It can feel thick and difficult to clear. You might also feel like it’s just out of reach.
Clearing your throat repeatedly can make things worse. Clearing your throat irritates the delicate tissue around your voice box, which can trigger the urge to do it again. Sipping water or swallowing gently may help break this cycle.
Could it be coming from my nose?
Sometimes the phlegm you feel in your throat is actually coming from your nose. This is called post-nasal drip, and it happens when mucus moves from the back of your nose into your throat. It can happen during a cold or after a sinus infection. Swelling inside your nose can also increase how much mucus you make.
Allergic rhinitis can also increase mucus production and lead to post-nasal drip. Allergic rhinitis happens when the lining of your nose reacts to something you’re allergic to, such as pollen or house dust mites. You might also get a blocked nose or sneeze more than usual.
The mucus can feel worse when you lie down. Some people notice it most in the morning, because it’s built up overnight.
Can reflux cause phlegm without heartburn?
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (a type of acid reflux that reaches your throat) can make it feel as though phlegm is stuck in your throat. It happens when stomach contents travel upwards and irritate your throat or voice box. This can cause frequent throat clearing or a hoarse voice, and it might feel like there’s extra mucus in your throat.
You don’t always get heartburn with this type of reflux – that’s why it’s sometimes called silent reflux.
These symptoms can have other causes, so you may need an assessment before reflux can be confirmed as the cause. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can examine the area and look for other possible causes.
Why can phlegm linger after illness?
Your airways often make more mucus while your body fights a cold or chest infection. This helps trap particles and clear them out.
This irritation in your airways can take time to settle, even after you start to feel better. Because of this, the urge to clear your throat may continue.
What if there isn’t actually any mucus?
Sometimes, the feeling of phlegm in your throat isn’t caused by mucus at all. Globus sensation is the feeling of a lump in your throat, even though nothing is actually blocking it. It can feel a lot like phlegm that won’t shift.
You can usually eat and drink normally. You might notice it more when you swallow saliva or during stressful times.
Repeated throat clearing can cause further irritation. Taking a sip of water may be gentler when the sensation returns.
When should you get it checked?
The feeling often settles once the underlying irritation improves. See a doctor if:
- It lasts for more than a few weeks
- Swallowing becomes difficult or painful
- You develop ongoing hoarseness
- You notice a lump in your neck
- You cough up blood
- You lose weight without trying
Get urgent medical help if you’re struggling to breathe or can’t swallow your saliva.
Get expert advice
Persistent phlegm can have a range of causes, and you don’t have to just live with it while you wait to see if it settles. A specialist assessment can help find where the sensation is coming from and explain what might help.
Mr Wale Olarinde is an experienced ENT specialist and head and neck surgeon supporting patients across Sheffield, Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. Get in touch with ENT Sheffield to arrange a consultation.