A-5 The phlegm should be checked.
We used to unconsciously swallow a small amount of phlegm which came up the throat from the trachea or windpipe and came up the throat even before the surgery.
After surgery, the tracheostoma was made in front of the neck and we breathe through it. Dust or differences in temperature serve increase the quantity of phlegm since we now breathe in outside air, directly through the tracheostoma.
Don't worry about a possible disorder despite the quantity of phlegm, even though it seems a bit much. The problem lies in its quality. If it is nonsticky and white, it is okay. Sticky viscous phlegm is often seen when one contracts a common cold. Care must be exercised if phlegm is yellow in color, contains small amounts of blood, or is a rusty color. See your physician, because bronchitis or pneumonia could be the dreadful outcome.
The amount of phlegm will decrease as you get used to tracheal breathing.
Q-6 Relationship between swallowing and the nose
After surgery, I cannot swallow what I have eaten or else it will enter the nose. A drink can leak from the nose, also. What to do?
