Q. Why am I coughing and throwing up mucus?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Throwing up mucus, also known as vomiting phlegm, can happen for several reasons, mostly tied to excess mucus production or irritation in your respiratory system. Here are some common culprits:

  • Postnasal Drip: This is a major suspect. Your nose and throat naturally produce mucus, which you usually swallow unconsciously. When you have a cold, allergies, or other irritations, mucus production can increase and drip down the back of your throat (postnasal drip). This can tickle your throat and trigger coughing, and sometimes even forceful coughing that leads to throwing up mucus.

  • Upper Respiratory Infections: The common cold, flu, and even sinusitis (sinus infection) can cause congestion and excess mucus production. Your body tries to expel this mucus through coughing, and sometimes that coughing can lead to throwing up mucus as well.

  • Other Irritants: Smoke, dust, and other airborne irritants can inflame your airways, leading to increased mucus production and cough that can bring up mucus.

Here's a quick breakdown of what to look for to determine the cause:

  • Accompanying Symptoms: If your throwing up mucus is accompanied by a cold or flu-like symptoms (fever, sore throat, etc.), a common cold or upper respiratory infection is likely the culprit. Allergies might be the cause if you have itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing along with the cough and mucus.

  • Mucus Color: The color of your mucus can also offer clues. Clear or white mucus is typical with a cold or allergies. Yellow or green mucus might indicate a sinus infection.

When to See a Doctor:

Throwing up mucus is usually not a serious concern. But if you experience any of the following alongside it, it's best to consult a healthcare professional:

  • High fever (over 103°F)

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Blood in your mucus

  • Severe vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down

  • Dehydration

  • Worsening symptoms after a week or so of home care

If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to see your doctor. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the best course of treatment.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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