and harder to clear.
You might notice that phlegm feels especially sticky:
After waking up
During hot weather
After exercise
When you haven’t been drinking enough
During an illness accompanied by fever or fluid loss
Drinking enough water throughout the day can help maintain normal hydration.
However, simply drinking enormous amounts of water won’t necessarily eliminate chronic phlegm if an underlying condition is causing increased mucus production.
Think of hydration as supporting normal mucus clearance—not as a cure for every cause of persistent phlegm.
Air Pollution and Irritants May Be Affecting Your Airways Your respiratory system is constantly exposed to the environment.
Air pollution, dust, chemical fumes, smoke, strong fragrances, and workplace irritants can inflame the airways and increase coughing or mucus production.
You may notice that symptoms become worse:
In heavily polluted areas
Around construction sites
During cleaning
At work
Near cigarette smoke
When exposed to strong chemicals
During
