During the winter months, being plagued by a common cold or flu bug is a run-of-the-mill occurrence. As a result, many are left suffering with irritating symptoms that can make the January Blues even worse.
Coughing, sneezing, constantly needing a tissue to blow your nose – all of these symptoms are undeniably annoying. But nothing compares to the irritating feeling of phlegm in your throat.
Thankfully, if you’re struggling, this “effective” trick to ease it is here to save the day! Shared by Dr Jun Reyes on TikTok, this simple solution takes only 20 seconds and has worked for hundreds of online users who have reported positive results.
Taking to TikTok to help the suffering, Dr Reyes advised viewers on a “very effective” way to remove phlegm trapped in the throat. He demonstrated that those wanting to try the trick should begin with diaphragmatic breathing by inhaling deeply through the nose for five seconds and holding it for another five seconds.
Then – using a glass of water and a straw – exhale slowly. According to Dr Reyes: “”This will help create moisture in the throat and help loosen the mucus.” The final step of the treatment is a huff cough, where you forcefully exhale in a similar motion used when trying to fog up a mirror.
Happily, this trick helped many online users relieve their winter illness symptoms. One testimony, written in Dr Reyes’ comment section, said: “This definitely works, I just did it and almost choked on the phlegm”, before thanking the medic.
Another wrote: “This really worked”, whilst someone else chimed in and said: “WORKED IMMEDIATELY”.
Other methods to ease phlegm recommended by the NHS include drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day, trying to avoid coughing fits, and regular exercise to prevent the mucus from settling.