Final answer:
The mucociliary escalator helps to expel mucus and trapped particles from the respiratory tract through coughing. Inhaling moist air and taking expectorants can facilitate the release of mucus, whereas cough suppressants may hinder this process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Mucus and the Mucociliary Escalator
The material that moves up the mucociliary escalator to the throat is typically expelled from the respiratory tract through actions like clearing the throat or coughing. The mucociliary escalator is an essential part of the respiratory system, designed to protect us by trapping harmful particles and pathogens in mucus. The cilia, which are microscopic, hair-like projections on cells lining the airways, propel the mucus containing trapped particles and pathogens upwards. When we are sick, coughing up phlegm helps to remove this mucus from the body.
To encourage the release and expectoration of mucus from the upper respiratory system, various methods can be utilized. Drinking plenty of fluids and inhaling moist air from a humidifier or steamy shower can thin the mucus, making it easier to cough out. Some over-the-counter medications are expectorants which increase the production of mucus and facilitate its clearance from the respiratory tract. However, cough suppressants should typically be avoided when dealing with a productive cough, as they suppress the cough reflex that is essential for clearing mucus.