Body Mucus

Mucus is a fluid produced by the body to coat moist areas, such as the eyes, nose, mouth, sinuses, lungs, throat, stomach, intestines, and reproductive organs. Mucus is present in our body and is continually produced, but it is more often noticeable when we are sick, for example, due to viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants. The functions of mucus are as follows:

• Adds moisture to inhaled air: prevents dryness of the respiratory tract, nose, and throat.
• Protects against foreign particles and microorganisms: filters, traps, and removes inhaled foreign objects, such as dust, smoke, air pollution, viruses, bacteria, fungi, or allergens.
• Fights infections: fights infections by trapping microorganisms on the surface of the lungs.

Mucus movement is involuntary. It can reach the throat, enter the stomach to be digested, and be excreted from the body through urination or defecation. Apart from that, mucus can also be expelled through coughing and vomiting when it accumulates in the throat. So, it can be excreted after being digested or not.

The body naturally produces mucus.

Composition

Mucus is made up mostly of water but also consists of proteins and sugars, as well as important molecules (antimicrobial molecules, immune regulatory molecules, and protective molecules) to support the function of the immune system.

Origins of Formation

As mentioned previously, the body produces mucus through special cells in the tissues that line the eyes, nose, mouth, sinuses, lungs, throat, stomach, intestines, and reproductive organs. There are two main types of cells, namely secretory cells (which release mucus components) and ciliated cells (which are covered by small hairs called cilia).

The majority of mucus consists of water and gel-forming molecules called mucins. The primary producers and secreters of mucus are special secretory cells called goblet cells, which are not covered by cilia. Not only do they produce mucus, but goblet cells and other secretory cells also release various proteins, salts, fats, and immune molecules which mix with the mucus and become part of it.

Apart from goblet cells, mucus is also produced by submucosal glands, which are found in the respiratory tract, mouth, and digestive tract. Mucus that is spread throughout the body is moved by cilia because of their ability to move in a way that creates rhythmic movements, thereby pushing the mucus like waves.

When the respiratory tract is exposed to allergens, irritants, inflammation, or experiences an infection, the body's mucus production will increase with the aim of cleaning it. This mucus will become thicker because it contains immune cells and foreign particles.

Mucus production increases when the body is exposed to allergens, irritants, or infections.

What About Snot When You Cry?

Crying is a trigger for mucus production that is not related to irritants, allergens, or infections. When crying, the tear glands produce tears which flow into the tear ducts in the eyes. These tears then mix with the mucus in the nose, causing the production of clear mucus. When the tears stop, the snot also stops.

Cleaning Tips

The best way to clear mucus actually depends on the underlying cause. There are several strategies that can be done independently at home without needing to check their condition at the nearest health service facility, such as the following:

• Taking antihistamines or decongestants.
• Using an over-the-counter (OTC) saline nasal spray.
• Inhaling or rubbing products containing eucalyptus oil on the chest and throat.
• Gently tapping your back or chest repeatedly to loosen the mucus.
• Using a humidifier or taking a warm shower.
• Wiping your face with a warm, damp cloth.
• Avoiding smoking.

Mucus is responsible for protecting the body from various external factors considered dangerous. Its composition is mostly water, but it also contains protein, fat, sugar, and other important molecules. The body continuously produces it, but if it feels abnormal or is accompanied by worrying symptoms, immediately check with the nearest health service facility.

Hey, grab the Fitie app now for cool tips and other fun stuff!