Sometimes we clear our throats to mark our presence, sometimes out of nervousness but mostly because our throat is getting irritated. As it is not life threatening per se, many people do not pay heed to it. However, it can be rather inconvenient.

What are the causes of throat clearing?

There are various factors that cause the need for clearing throats; generally, it is a symptom of some underlying issue. While most of the time nothing dangerous is causing the problem, however, if the issue for the need to clear your throat has been going on for over 2 weeks, it is best to visit an ENT specialist in Lahore to get a sound diagnosis.

One of the most common reasons is acid reflux. In this condition, acid from the stomach flows back up to the esophageal tract and then moves up towards the throat, irritating it as a result.

Another common reason for it is post nasal drop. Mucus is an important component of the respiratory tract. It is found in the mouth, nose, throat, and gets inconspicuously swallowed by people, as a reflex. However, at times, it can build up at the back of the throat, leading for the need of conscious clearing.

Seasonal allergies also lead to excess mucus production, as the immune system goes into overdrive due to the allergens. People suffering from Asthma too, are more prone to having the problem of throat clearing.

Some people experience this condition on account of swallowing difficulties. These can be due to biological issues. For example, Zenker’s Diverticulum is a condition marked by the presence of an abnormal body in the esophagus that prevents food from entering into the stomach. This causes obstruction of the mucus that can get stuck in the throat.

Likewise, certain neurological issues can also lead to continuous throat clearing. One such condition is Tourette Syndrome, where a person experiences twitching, tics, and coughs etc. Some medications, like some blood pressure medicines, can also cause side-effects that lead to this phenomenon.

How to deal with throat clearing?

To get the solution, it is first important to establish the diagnosis. Serious conditions like Tourette syndrome, Zenker’s diverticulum etc. need a more robust action plan. Their symptoms are also different from the other more innocuous causes of throat clearing. For these, consulting your doctor for therapy and medication is imperative.

It is also possible to alleviate the other less serious causes of throat clearing by doing home remedies. Mornings are ideal for targeted treatment, as they help set the pace for the entire day.

If you are having problems with your throat, incorporate these morning rituals to have a clear throat!

• Morning hot showers

Nothing is as relaxing for the body as a hot shower. Not only does it aid in relaxing the muscles, but also is great for clearing the throat. As we breathe in the steam, it helps to clear away the clumps of mucus lodged in the throat and the nose. Once the excess mucus is cleared away, there is nothing irritating the throat anymore.

Moreover, those suffering from throat clearing issues on account of sinus problems, will experience more relief as the hot water falls on the face and thus helps to relieve the ache and pressure in the sinuses.

• Gargles

Salt and water gargles are a great home remedy to soothe a sore and irritated throat. It also is useful for clearing the throat. Gargles also help to reduce the inflammation in the throat that might be causing pain.

Furthermore, saltwater gargles also help to clear away the mucus and thereby are an excellent regimen to avoid frequent throat clearing. Moreover, salt-water gargles have other benefits like reducing infections, removing the harmful bacteria in the mouth and preventing re-infections.

To make the gargles, just add around half a teaspoon of salt to a warm glass of water. Make sure not to add too much salt. Do the gargles after waking up; take a sip of the water, gargle for a few seconds, and spit the water out.

• Avoid Caffeine

We all love our morning coffee, however, one of the major reasons behind the need for clearing throat is a dry throat. Since caffeine is diuretic, therefore, it leads to loss of fluid from the body. Taken in excess, it can possibly lead to dehydration.

Therefore, avoid caffeine in the morning. Instead, drink decaf versions or healthy green tea!

• Hydrate yourself

Rather than throwing back cups of coffee in the morning, instead, start your day right by hydrating yourself, as it counters the problems induced due to dry throat. Also, if the body is well-hydrated, it produces thin mucus that slides down the throat easily. It thus does not cause obstructions in the throat and keeps it clear.

Try taking a glass of hot lemon water in the morning to clear the throat and keep the digestive system happy. It also disinfects the throat to relieve the irritating bacteria present as well.

• Breakfast done right

Breakfast is an important meal of the day. Having a healthy diet is important to have strong immunity. This helps to relieve persistent coughs, cold and respiratory infections that constantly plague people and cause throat issues.

Try taking some fruit in breakfast, as the fiber from fruit helps to prevent phlegm-related problems.

If despite all these morning measures, your throat is causing problems, you should schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist in Karachi as you might need medicinal intervention.

Throat clearing can cause discomfort. However, making few positive lifestyle changes can help ease and heal the condition.