Mucus is a thin, slippery fluid that lines the nose, throat, and other passages to trap dust and germs. Phlegm is a thicker type of mucus produced in the lungs to catch and remove harmful particles ...

Drinking plenty of fluids can help decrease the thickness of phlegm and make it easier to remove. Bloody, brown, white, yellow, or green phlegm may be a sign of an underlying condition or infection.

Mucus production is natural. However, overproduction of mucus in the throat can lead to long-term coughing and throat irritation. Certain conditions and factors can lead to an excess of mucus, such as ...