So, how does stomach acid cause phlegm? When that harsh acid splashes up and irritates the delicate lining of your esophagus and throat, your body goes into defense mode. It produces more mucus to act as a protective barrier. If the reflux is chronic, this mucus production goes into overdrive. To make matters worse, the constant inflammation can damage your airways and reduce your ability to effectively clear the phlegm, leading to accumulation and even potential infections. It becomes a vicious cycle of irritation and mucus production.
How can you know if GERD is your issue? Pay attention to these clues:
- Timing is everything. Do you notice the phlegm, a sour taste, or a burning sensation in your chest or throat after meals, especially large or fatty ones? Does it get worse when you lie down at night?
- You have a nighttime cough. Many people with reflux-induced phlegm find themselves coughing persistently at night. Your voice might also become hoarse and gravelly, especially in the morning.
- You wake up with a sore throat. Waking up with an irritated throat, a mouth full of thick phlegm, and a bitter taste is a classic sign that stomach acid has been creeping up while you were sleeping.
