Mucus isn't always the "bad guy." In fact, mucus is an important part of your body's defense system. Mucus can also help transport and remove inhaled particles that become trapped in your air passageways. Every time you sniff, swallow or just clear your throat, mucus is doing its job and working as the "good guy."
But sometimes things can change, like when you get a cold. That's when congestion can build up and the mucus increases. It becomes thicker and moves more slowly through your respiratory system. That's when "Mr. Mucus" can enter your system and you suffer from cough and chest tightness
Chest congestion can be one of the most annoying symtom a person can deal with. Accumulations of excess mucus in your lungs and throat will eventually block-up airway and make you feel irritated.
Chest congestion also provides a favourable environment for bacterial growth,which could lead to secondary infections1,2
How do you know you have chest congestion ?
1. Shale DJ & Ionescu AA. Eur Respir J 2004; 23:797-798.
2. Houtmeyers et al. Eur Respir J 1999;14:452-467.