Why does mucus burn?
As we sit here coughing up what feels like our own organs, one question lingers in the back of our minds: why does mucus burn? It’s time to get to the bottom of this mystery and find out just what it is that makes mucus feel like acid.
The Role of Mucus
Before we can dive into why it burns, let’s take a moment to appreciate what mucus actually does for us. You may be surprised to know that there are some benefits!
- Lubricating: Mucus keeps our nasal passages and throat lubricated so they don’t dry out.
- Filtration: Mucus can catch dirt, dust, bacteria, and other unwanted particles before they enter our lungs.
- Protection: If you’ve ever gotten a tissue with a ton of snot on it after blowing your nose (we all have), then you know first hand that an impressive amount of germs end up in there.
So even though dealing with snot isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time, mucus actually plays an important role in keeping us healthy.
Why Does Mucous Get Stuck In Our Airways?
One reason for excess mucous production could be allergies or an illness such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). However Illnesses aside from inflammation within the airway itself could make individuals more prone toward building-up thick secretions – Among those who participate in smoking tobacco both regularly or occasionally(note: greater reference can explored)
Anyway! Once mucosal secretions(snot) builds enough thickness due various causes persisting illnesses , further body mechanisms require actionability to clear them out since ordinary filtering mechanisms do not reckon well at these scenarios
In fact when someone has excessive exposure/experiences irritants present around their environment/habitation —excessive swelling cumulated thick mucus accumulation can occur, augmenting likelihood of difficulty while breathing. This resulting inflammation is due to a group of reinforcing factors that have varying degrees of influence including inhaled particulate matter (such as dust and pollution), allergens, tobacco smoke and infections.
So Why Does It Burn?
The answer to this question lies in the pH levels. The normal pH level for our nasal passages and throat is around 6.5, which is slightly acidic but comfortable for us. However when mucous builds up/get stuck within airway then it gets rife with bacteria which feed upon host cells or gather up dead cells causing more acidity cumulating an infection.
As a consequence when mucous becomes because dense due long-standing avoidance from action plans it produces obstruction preventing its adequate exposure to oxygen, hence reduces its functionality at filtering out airborne irritants/though that’s not all , stagnant mucus causes dehydration(one reason why one should drink fluids?)in turn making thicker . As such there isn’t much place left over from where chemicals could evaporate(occurs during inflammation usually\note: proof reading required) — thus increasing concentration since total available space lessened means density relatively increased.So Voila! You get your answer – the acid produced by these reactions burns (especially if accumulated overtime) .
Possible Treatments
Now that we’ve gotten through the science-y stuff, let’s talk about what you can do if you’re currently dealing with burning snot real estate:
Steamy Showers And Humidifiers
This method involves inhaling steam either through hot water showers or humidifiers (personal opinion: some might prefer hot tubs). Nonetheless inhalation technique used puts fluid into sinuses/nasal cavities opening them up for better excretion chances
Nasal Washes/Salt Water Rinse
Another way would be thoroughly rinsing nostrils with saline water which clears them out well , taken from degree’s of unblocking one can rate efficiency below
⦁Better Breath Count :++
⦁Acute Sinuses Closing:+++
⦁Nasal Drip Reduction Rating:+++++
Proper Hydration
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like hot tea, herbal infusions or warm milk could serve to greatly deal with the dehydration that worsens mucus’ consistency.
NOTE: It is said that not all drinks are equal in hydrating power. Scientists have found that plain water without any flavorings tends to be absorbed faster than beverages containing flavors/sugar levels
such as sports drinks with sugar added which proves detrimental in hydration due diuretic effects
When To Seek Medical Attention?
If your symptoms persist despite these home remedies for over a week or worsen manifesting loss in hearing/vision/organs please refer/seek medical attention immediately.
In Conclusion
While snot build up isn’t fun per se and causes discomforts downhaul- it serves valuable filtration purposes nevertheless . The acid secreted by reactants while uncomfortable does serve vital function(over-production aside). So thanks, mucus; we may complain about you every now and then but things would be even worse without you.