Suctioning mucus or nasal secretions is a method used to help clear the airway by removing excess phlegm or mucus with a suction device. This makes breathing easier and more comfortable. It is especially helpful for people who have difficulty clearing mucus on their own — such as patients with chronic lung disease, young children, or elderly individuals.
In this article, we’ll discuss when to see a doctor, how to prepare, and the proper techniques for mucus and nasal suctioning to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Essential Information About Mucus and Nasal Suctioning
- Why Suction Mucus and Nasal Secretions?
- Symptoms That May Require Suctioning
- Service Fees for Mucus or Nasal Suctioning at the Clinic

- How Mucus and Nasal Suctioning Is Performed
- How to Prepare Before Suctioning
- Does Suctioning Hurt?

- How Often Should Mucus or Nasal Suctioning Be Done?
- Doctor’s Recommendations
Why Suction Mucus and Nasal Secretions?
Mucus and phlegm are natural secretions produced by the body to trap germs and foreign particles, helping protect the respiratory system.
However, when there’s too much mucus, it can block the airway, cause difficulty breathing, and increase the risk of infection.
Suctioning mucus and nasal secretions helps clear the airway, reduce complications, and make breathing easier and more comfortable for the patient. ![]()
How Mucus and Nasal Suctioning Is Performed
Nasal Suctioning in Infants and Young Children
Infants and young children often cannot blow their noses effectively. Nasal suctioning helps clear the airway, making it easier for them to breathe, feed, and sleep comfortably.
Using a gentle and appropriate suction device, caregivers or healthcare providers can safely remove mucus to reduce the risk of respiratory infections and improve airflow.
Sputum Suctioning in Adults or Patients
Sputum suctioning may be needed for patients with excess mucus who are unable to clear it on their own — such as those with chronic lung diseases, those on ventilators, or individuals with muscle weakness.
Doctors or nurses use a medical suction machine to gently clear the airway, helping the patient breathe more easily and prevent complications such as infections or airway obstruction.
Doctor’s Recommendations
At the clinic, we use safe equipment and appropriate techniques to help minimize the risk of injury and infection during suctioning procedures.
While performing suctioning, we can also assess the patient’s condition and provide respiratory health care advice, giving patients clear guidance on how to manage their airway health properly.
– NITIPORN GUNCHARO, MD. ว.52284 –
General Practitioner at Intouch Medicare Udomsuk Branch
Service Fees for Mucus or Nasal Suctioning at the Clinic
- Starting price: 1,600 THB
- Note: This price does not include medication costs and may vary depending on the doctor’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
How to Prepare Before Suctioning
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Drink plenty of water — Staying hydrated helps loosen mucus, making it easier to remove.
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Avoid eating or drinking at least 1–2 hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of nausea or aspiration during suctioning.
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Inform your doctor about any underlying health conditions or medications you’re taking, especially if you have heart or lung diseases or bleeding disorders.
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Avoid smoking before your visit, as cigarette smoke can make mucus thicker and more difficult to clear.
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Take deep breaths to help expand the lungs and mobilize mucus for easier removal.
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Stay calm and relaxed — the procedure is performed using safe techniques to keep patients as comfortable as possible.
Does Suctioning Hurt?
During the procedure, patients may feel some discomfort or mild irritation, but it should not be painful.
If you experience significant pain or difficulty breathing during suctioning, inform your doctor or nurse immediately so they can stop the procedure and ensure your safety.
Get Suction CareHow Often Should Mucus or Nasal Suctioning Be Done?
Whether mucus or nasal suctioning should be performed frequently depends on the symptoms. If the mucus or phlegm is thick and cannot be cleared naturally, suctioning should be performed 2–3 times per day or more.
However, it should not be done too frequently, as this may cause irritation to the nasal mucosa or bronchial tubes.
Intouch Medicare offers mucus and phlegm suctioning services for children, adults, and the elderly at all branches. Our clinic is open daily, with doctors and nurses on-site to provide safe and gentle care.We offer affordable prices, fast service, and no long waiting time.
For more info and make appointment
Nithiporn Kuncharo, MD.
General Practitioner
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