In the face of viruses, we are all equal. And there often comes a time when we find ourselves cluttered, blocked and tormented by the most glamorous questions: what to do with all this mucus? In short, should we swallow it or spit it out? Is it dangerous to keep it? The (slimy) question deserves professional attention.
Mucus, an unknown ally of our defense system
Before deciding, we must first understand what this mucus that appears with every cold really is. This fluid and gelatinous substance, produced by the mucous membranes of the body (nose, throat, lungs, digestive system, etc.), plays a key role in our health. Composed mainly of water, proteins (mucins), antibodies, enzymes and mineral salts, it acts as a protective barrier:
- It hydrates and protects internal tissues;
- It traps allergens, dust and microbes;
- And it helps the immune system eliminate irritating agents.
When you are sick (cold, flu, sinusitis or bronchitis, etc.), the body produces more. This excess aims to trap and expel viruses and bacteria. But this is also accompanied by happy symptoms: blocked nose, wet cough, feeling of congested throat… So should you spit out this mucus or let it pass?
Coughing up your mucus: the most effective solution according to Dr. Kierzek
For Dr Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, the answer is clear:
“It is best to spit out mucus when you are sick, especially if it is thick or irritating to the throat. This helps eliminate infectious agents contained in the mucus more effectively.”
Indeed, mucus comes from the lungs and often contains residues of viruses, bacteria and dead cells. Expectorating it therefore helps the body to get rid of it.
The benefits of spitting:
- This allows microbes and allergens trapped in the mucus to be evacuated;
- Spitting also reduces discomfort and irritation in the throat;
- And this makes it easier to monitor the condition of the mucus (color, consistency), useful in the event of a respiratory infection.
But be careful: spitting too often can irritate the mucous membrane of the throat, or even cause a reflex cough or an overproduction of mucus.
Swallowing mucus: not dangerous, but not very pleasant
Don’t panic if the idea puts you off. If spitting out is preferable, swallowing mucus is not risky for your health, specifies the doctor.
“Swallowed mucus is broken down in the stomach, where gastric acid destroys the majority of microbes”.
In other words, your body knows how to handle this safely. Swallowing may even be a more socially acceptable solution, especially in public, where spitting is not always possible or very elegant.
On the other hand, swallowing large amounts can be uncomfortable and cause gagging. It’s up to you to know how to dose.
Advice to better resolve the problem
Ultimately, spitting remains the best option to help the body eliminate infectious agents and soothe the throat. But that’s not all. To limit discomfort, Dr. Kierzek also advises:
- To hydrate abundantly (water, herbal teas, broths);
- To encourage hot inhalations or steam showers;
- And use physiological serum to clear the airways.
Reflexes to free yourself as quickly as possible and regain your elegance.