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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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Exp 50 years

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Sensation Of Mucus And Phlegm In Throat, Habit Of Clearing Throat. Is It Psychological?

i have a habit of coughing, moreso a habit of clearing my throat, thinking that something is in my throat such as mucus/phlegm causing me to clear my throat and then spit it out, but in most circumstances there is no mucus or phlegm present in the saliva, i have had this now and again for numerous years, and i do not know if it is psychological or a physical cause
Regards
James A
posted on Sat, 15 Jun 2013
Twitter Tue, 18 Jun 2013 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 18 Jun 2013 Last reviewed on
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hi,
Yes, if you continue clearing throat even when there is no irritation or phlegm and have been doing so for years then it is what's called a 'mannerism' in psychological terms. It is quite commonly found in normal population and nothing to be worried about unless it is causing you social problems where you can seek help to try and reduce it. It can increase in situations when you are anxious or insecure etc.
There are behavioral therapies that could help reduce it.
Hope this helps,
Dr Anjana rao
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Sensation Of Mucus And Phlegm In Throat, Habit Of Clearing Throat. Is It Psychological?

Hi, Yes, if you continue clearing throat even when there is no irritation or phlegm and have been doing so for years then it is what s called a mannerism in psychological terms. It is quite commonly found in normal population and nothing to be worried about unless it is causing you social problems where you can seek help to try and reduce it. It can increase in situations when you are anxious or insecure etc. There are behavioral therapies that could help reduce it. Hope this helps, Dr Anjana rao