Understanding Catarrh and Phlegm: A Guide to Clearer Breathing
If you are always down with a cold, to the point where you probably don’t even notice it anymore, you are not alone. Due to this experience, you might consider the “clogged” sensation in the back of your nose and throat as totally normal. You probably might be waking up with a “stuffy” nose and itching throat for years without even realising it is not how it is supposed to be
We are here to tell you not to dismiss these symptoms as just a lingering cold. In fact, it is most likely a condition called catarrh that causes excessive buildup of mucus and phlegm. It most likely occurs due to underlying infections such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, or the flu. Understanding the mechanics of mucus, the causes of congestion, and how holistic care, including cranial osteopathy, helps is the first step toward relief.
What is Catarrh?
While the presence of mucus in the nasal passage and throat is natural, it becomes annoying when there is excessive buildup. Catarrh, characterised by excessive mucus and phlegm buildup, often occurs due to underlying infections. It is the body’s way of clearing the infections and making you healthy again.
However, the persistent presence of an unusual amount of mucus and phlegm can make it difficult for you to breathe freely. Here are some symptoms of catarrh that most people find difficult to deal with.
- Reduced sense of smell
- Runny nose
- Blocked nose
- Postnatal drip
- Cough
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Hoarse voice
- Lumped throat
What is Phlegm?
Differing from nasal mucus, mainly in thickness and texture, phlegm is produced by the lower respiratory system. The primary purpose of the phlegm is to trap inhaled dust, germs, and viruses, acting as an important line of defence against illnesses. To give you a better understanding, phlegm is what you typically cough up during a severe cold or a bout of bronchitis.
The Role of Phlegm in Catarrh
While mucus is the primary “culprit” in catarrh, phlegm cannot be completely ignored either. When you have catarrh due to infections or allergies, your body generates excess mucus. The mucus from the nasal passage sometimes fails to drain forward through the nose and might flow backward into the throat. This process is known as post-natal drip. After reaching the throat, the mucus mixes with pre-existing secretions and is perceived as phlegm. This causes inflammation and blockage of the airway, further leading to excessive mucus production. This is a vicious cycle that demands medical care to ensure quicker healing.
Common Causes of Catarrh
Infections
As mentioned earlier, infections such as tonsillitis, sinusitis, and even the common cold trigger catarrh.
Allergies
If your allergies get triggered by pollens, dust, or pet dander, you are more likely to experience catarrh.
Environmental Irritants
This is arguably the most common factor causing catarrh among today’s general population. Air pollution, being exposed to cigarette smoke, or strong perfumes can all worsen catarrh symptoms.
Structural Issues
A nose’s structure plays a crucial role in ensuring clear, obstruction-free breathing. Structural issues, such as a deviated septum and enlarged turbinates, increase the risk of catarrh and worsen the symptoms.
Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)
Sometimes, digestive acid rises and enters the esophagus. This process, known as reflux or heartburn, is a common cause of catarrh. When the throat is constantly irritated, the body generates more mucus to protect the lining, thus making your throat and nose feel stuffy or clogged.
Food That Causes Catarrh
If you are dealing with catarrh or are prone to it
How Cranial Osteopathy Can Help With Catarrh?
Cranial osteopathy focuses on the gentle manipulation of the head and spine to relieve tension and stress. When it comes to catarrh, cranial osteopathy helps ease the symptoms by promoting sinus drainage and reducing inflammation.
Why are sinus drainage and inflammation reduction important? The former enables the mucus to drain from the sinus to the nasal cavity without interruptions. This effectively prevents excessive mucus buildup and thus catarrh.
The latter, inflammation reduction, is the key to clearer breathing when dealing with catarrh. Reduced inflammation is also associated with less mucus production and elimination of symptoms such as sore throat and headache.
Since osteopathy is a holistic approach, it focuses on addressing the root causes of catarrh rather than just treating the symptoms. A cranial osteopath can provide lasting relief from catarrh by improving the mobility of cranial bones and promoting lymphatic and sinus drainage.
How Does the Hivamat Machine Support Lymphatic Drainage and Tissue Relaxation?
Hivamat machine therapy and Catterah therapy are gentle, non-invasive approaches used to support lymphatic drainage, tissue relaxation, and fluid balance. The Hivamat machine uses deep electrostatic oscillations to mobilise fluids and soften tissues without pressure, making it well suited for sensitive or inflamed areas. give heading ot it
Why Choose Prime Health Hub in Taringa?
Prime Health Hub in Taringa is synonymous with trust and care. Our senior osteopaths, Dr Avinash and Archana Sukthankar, have decades of experience in treating people of all ages.
Dr Avinash has a special interest in treating chronic pain, headaches, jaw pain, and vertigo. Meanwhile, Dr Archana has a deep understanding of the unique needs of women, babies, and children.
Prime Health Hub’s extensive experience in cranial osteopathy means we can offer lasting relief from catarrh and phlegm-related issues to people of all ages.
We take the time to study patient history, evaluate co-morbidities, and curate a treatment plan that works best for you. At Prime Health Hub in Taringa, our treatment also includes yoga, meditation, and exercises to ensure a (w)holistic approach. Call (07) 3568 4775 or click here to book an appointment today!
