Do you always feel like there’s something in your throat that you can’t cough up or swallow?

Do you have to “um! huh!” every morning for ages, only to find your voice gets hoarser and drier the more you clear it?

Violent throat clearing harms your throat and is ineffective!

Your vocal cords are very delicate; every time you "forcefully" clear your throat, it's like violently slamming them together. Over time, vocal cord congestion, nodules, or polyps may develop!

So what is the correct "phlegm-clearing posture"?

Scientific four-step method for coughing up phlegm (for productive cough)

Suitable for when you feel phlegm lodged deep and need to expel it!

Take a deep breath: slowly inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs with air.

Hold your breath: hold for 2–3 seconds to give your chest cavity a bit of pressure.

Use core force: engage your abdomen and diaphragm to create a short, forceful burst of air. Imagine fogging a window in winter, but not a long “huh—”, rather a sharp “hah!”

In one breath: use this airflow to "push" deep phlegm up to the oropharynx, then easily spit it out.

✨Tip: Lean the body slightly forward, or have a family member pat the back (from bottom to top, from outside to inside) for better effect!

Daily throat care alternative (dry cough without phlegm version)

If you only have a habitual dry cough, a foreign-body sensation in the throat, but no phlegm, try these tricks:

Ultimate trick: sip warm water in small sips

Warm water can instantly moisturize the vocal cords and wash away the foreign body sensation; it is the gentlest and most effective "cleanser."

"Silent" throat-clearing method: perform swallowing motions

Make several consecutive swallowing motions, using the movement of the throat muscles to "arrange" the vocal cords; this can likewise relieve discomfort.

Honey soothes the throat

Take a spoonful of honey, hold it in the mouth, or dissolve it in warm water to drink; its viscous texture can form a protective film in the throat, with excellent effect!

Stop these throat-damaging habits now!

Obsessive throat clearing ❌

Loud shouting, prolonged whispering ❌

Smoking, drinking alcohol ❌

Eating too many spicy or irritating foods ❌

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Save this and forward it to that friend who answers every call with a long “Hmm! Hm!” first! Care for your throat starting today!