Ever questioned why are you coughing up yellow mucus? Read on why this occurs and how to get rid of it naturally.
Mucus comes in a variety of hues wherein white or clear, yellow and green are the most common and could indicate that an infection has taken place in the airways. The human body has its own unique defense mechanism against intruders and the color of mucus indicates the body’s progression in getting rid of these intruders. Clear or white mucus indicates that a mild irritation has occurred. Coughing up yellow mucus means that the immune system is in a tough fight with the intruders, and when it turns into green, the illness is about to end.
Why cough out yellow mucus?
There are several reasons why you cough out yellow mucus. Allergic reaction is one reason of expelling yellow mucus. Pollen, animal dander and mold bring about the liberation of histamines in the body and coughing and mucus production is among its reactive symptoms. After exposure, you will experience nasal congestion associated with the release of yellow mucus. Sinusitis can also cause mucus to become yellow together with the tenderness and swelling of nasal passages. The nose naturally secretes mucus to keep it lubricated and to purify the air before it enters the lungs. Once they are blocked, you will start expelling yellow mucus. Other health conditions can also cause you to cough up yellow mucus such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer as well as acute and chronic bronchitis. If you’re coughing up yellow mucus for more than 2 weeks, you shouldn’t delay seeing your doctor to rule out underlying health problems.
Coughing up yellow mucus with blood
Coughing up yellow mucus with blood traces can also mean tuberculosis, It is also followed by episodes of tiredness and fever. This disease requires intensive treatment and observation to prevent any recurrence or relapse.
How to get rid of yellow mucus naturally?
Expelling yellow mucus can be very disgusting and you want to get rid of it as soon as possible. Here are some tips on how to get rid of yellow mucus naturally.
• Drink lots of water
This is the easiest way to get rid of yellow mucus naturally. For best results, drink plain water because it is capable of hydrating your immune system faster. It effectively helps thin out yellow mucus.
• Steam inhalation
This is another effective home remedy for yellow mucus. You just simply boil a pan of water and put some herbs or oils into it such as eucalyptus oil, peppermint, licorice, thyme, comfrey and many more. These herbs are natural expectorants. It is best that you bend over the pan of boiling water covering your head and the pan and inhale all the steam.
• Water compresses and massages
Compressing your sinus area and lower forehead with warm water helps liquefy the mucus allowing it to drip naturally. A simple massage on the sinus areas several times daily effectively relieves sinus congestion.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help in warding off infection that causes yellow mucus as well as strengthen your immune system.
Coughing up yellow mucus shouldn’t be taken lightly because it may possibly indicate serious health problems. Take the necessary steps to determine its root cause and get rid of it as soon as possible.
