The primary way to stop spitting up phlegm is to get rid of the mucus which causes it. Doing this may require different actions since phlegm accumulation can be caused by various things. Smokers should give up cigarettes, and those with an illness will need to seek medical care to alleviate symptoms. Most phlegm is caused by irritation in the lungs or throat. Viruses, bacterial infections, and allergens can all cause this irritation.
Spitting up phlegm is a symptom of another condition rather than a condition in and of itself. One common cause is smoking. Inhaled smoke and other chemicals found in cigarettes and other forms of smoking tobacco, marijuana, and other drugs leads to tar buildup and irritation in the lungs. In response, the tissues of the lungs produce mucus, or phlegm, to get rid of these irritants. The only way to reduce mucous production in this case is to quit smoking. This can be done using nicotine supplements, medications, and other natural methods.
Illness may also cause patients to spit up phlegm. These conditions can include the common cold, influenza, pneumonia, and sometimes allergies. Reducing mucus in these cases requires the illness to be successfully treated. Most minor viral conditions eventually heal on their own, while allergies may require the use of medication.
Until the underlying cause is found and treated, patients can speed up the process of spitting up phlegm by taking medication to loosen the mucus, inhaling steam, and avoiding foods which lead to excessive mucus production, such as milk. When mucus is coughed up, it should be spat into a sink or toilet and then clean away thoroughly. Mucus may be highly contagious, and all surfaces which come in contact with it should be disinfected.
Some illnesses which result in spitting up phlegm may be serious and require hospitalization. Pneumonia is one example. This condition can lead to labored breathing and sepsis in severe cases and is especially dangerous in the elderly and in young children. Mucus may need to be loosened with a prescription medication, and sometimes machines are used to suction the lungs more thoroughly.
Excessive mucus production or phlegm that is discolored or tinged with blood should always be reported to a medical professional. Most of the time, spitting up phlegm is not serious, but in some cases an underlying condition may be to blame. Colds or flu that last longer than a week or two should also be investigated more thoroughly.