Chronic throat mucus, cough and heartburn

Cough and phlegm

Chronic phlegm in the throat has several possible causes, but we will focus on the most common one. Cough and phlegm are closely related. Cough is the body's natural response to harmful microbes, dust and irritants, protecting the lungs and serving as a defense. Despite its protective function, a cough can become very unpleasant, irritating and even painful. Frequent coughing can affect sleep and reduce quality of life. Therefore, it is often one of the main reasons why people seek medical help. Finding the underlying cause of a cough is key to treating it appropriately.

Cough is a natural reflex, the purpose of which is to clear the airways of irritants such as mucus, smoke and various particles. Its main function is to ensure smooth breathing when unwanted substances accumulate in the airways. The body uses this mechanism as a defense to protect the lungs from possible infections and inflammation. Common irritants that trigger a cough include mucus, smoke, dust and pollen. Certain diseases or medications, including ACE inhibitors and beta blockers, can affect the nerve endings in the airways, causing coughing. A cough becomes a concern if it lasts more than eight weeks.

ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers are classes of drugs commonly used to treat heart and blood vessel problems. ACE inhibitors act on enzymes and help dilate blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and makes the heart work easier. On the other hand, beta-blockers slow the heart rate and reduce the force of heart contractions, and they also help lower blood pressure. Both drugs are essential in the treatment of many cardiovascular conditions, but attention should be paid to potential side effects. While ACE inhibitors can cause cough in some people, beta-blockers can cause fatigue or breathing problems. It is always recommended to consult a doctor regarding possible side effects and benefits of treatment.

Reflux and heartburn

The most common causes of chronic cough and heavy mucus in the respiratory tract include: sinus infections, allergies, asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, lung infections, lung cancer, heart failure, and even certain psychological disorders. The leading cause of mucus in the throat and oesophagus is gastroesophageal reflux disease, often called GERD or heartburn. GERD is a condition in which stomach acid abnormally leaks back into the oesophagus, but can also reach the oral cavity or lungs. Between 20-44% of the population in Western, industrialized countries suffer from GERD. Many experts believe that the high incidence of GERD is directly related to the modern diet rich in processed foods.

The most common cause of GERD is low stomach acid. As many as 40% of adults in developed countries experience GERD-related symptoms at least once a month, while 10-20% experience them almost daily. Alarmingly, up to 15% of GERD patients may eventually develop Barrett's oesophagus, a condition where severe tissue damage and scarring affects the oesophagus. Despite popular belief, the symptoms of GERD are not actually caused by excess stomach acid, but by the fact that the acid is in a place where it shouldn't be. Some patients with GERD actually produce less stomach acid than healthy people.

The most common cause of a feeling of mucus in the throat is damage to the oesophagus and chronic inflammation caused by insufficient stomach acid. The oesophageal sphincter, a type of valve in the oesophagus, keeps stomach acid in the stomach. When this valve doesn't work properly, stomach acid can leak into the oesophagus. According to the pH scale, a value of 7 is neutral; values ​​below 7 are acidic and values ​​above 7 are alkaline. Normal stomach acid levels range between 1 and 3. Our stomach should be a sterile environment where healthy stomach acid destroys pathogens. If the stomach acid is less acidic than it should be, health problems can occur. If you notice a persistent presence of mucus in your throat and oesophagus, talk to your doctor about possible GERD problems.

What can we do?

Consider purchasing a dietary supplement such as a combination of bromelain and papain. These are natural enzymes extracted from pineapple and papaya that can help with stomach problems. Of course, the mentioned fruit can also be enjoyed fresh. The intake of B vitamins, especially vitamins B1 and B12, is also crucial.

To alleviate problems in the throat and facilitate coughing, you can prepare the following tea from natural ingredients:

• 250 ml of water
• thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger (peeled and sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon powder
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• juice of 1/4 lemon

Boil ginger and cinnamon in water. When it boils, reduce the heat and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Then strain the tea and let it cool for 10 minutes before adding the lemon juice and honey. Ginger, cinnamon, honey and lemon are natural ingredients that can help thin mucus and relieve coughing.

Finally, it should be emphasized again that there are several reasons for the chronic presence of mucus in the throat, with GERD being among the most common. This condition can cause damage to the oesophagus and pharynx, leading to constant inflammation and the resulting production of troublesome mucus.

Frequency programmes according to ETDFL

Here you will find frequency programmes designed to eliminate both the causes and symptoms of various problems. It is recommended to create a frequency therapy protocol for each specific problem. This protocol should include supportive therapies for the lymph, kidneys, adrenals, and liver. Additionally, a holistic approach that includes proper nutrition, healthy thinking, and other aspects of holistic health is critical.

On the subject of the stomach, read the protocol at the following link:

You can find more about protocols for performing frequency therapies at the following links:

The complete ETDFL frequency list in English is available free of charge at the link.

Source for frequency programmes: ETDFL.com