qqp question1: Is it unhealthy to swallow one's own phlegm during a cold or a flu? Are there any ill effects or benefits from swallowing or not swallowing phlegm? question2: "Why is phlegm called ""phlegm"" when it is in the throat, and ""mucus"" when in the nose? And why does phlegm stay in the throat and not get swallowed into the stomach?"