Now what?
- A humidifier or steam inhalation (as during a hot shower)
- Keeping well-hydrated (to keep the mucus thinner)
- Sleep on propped up pillows, to keep the mucus from collecting at the back of your throat.
- Nasal irrigation (available over-the-counter)
What is the main cause of post nasal drip?
One of the most frequent causes of postnasal drip is allergies, which is often called allergic postnasal drip. Another cause is a deviated septum. If you have a deviated septum, it means the wall of cartilage between your nostrils (septum) is crooked.
What is the best medicine for post nasal drip?
You can turn to a number of home treatments to relieve the symptoms of postnasal drip. Over-the-counter decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help reduce congestion and eliminate postnasal drip. Newer, nondrowsy antihistamines like loratadine-pseudoephedrine (Claritin) can work to get rid of postnasal drip.
How long does post nasal drip usually last?
Post nasal drip that is caused by viral infections, such as the cold or flu, could last for weeks or longer, depending on the type of treatment and a person’s immune response. Whereas, post nasal drip caused by seasonal allergies may cause symptoms to flare up suddenly and disappear after just a short time.
How can I stop post nasal drip? – Related Questions
What happens if post-nasal drip is left untreated?
Most cases of post-nasal drip go away with time, but long-lasting, untreated post-nasal drip and excess mucus can create a breeding ground for germs, which in turn can lead to additional health complications, including sinus infections and ear infections.
Can post-nasal drip be serious?
While postnasal drip is usually a minor or temporary condition, there are rare occasions when symptoms may be serious and potentially harmful, suggesting a cause that’s not temporary or easy to manage.
What dries up sinus drainage in throat?
Antihistamines and decongestants can often help with postnasal drip caused by sinusitis and viral infections. They can also be effective, along with steroid nasal sprays, for postnasal drip caused by allergies.
Can you have post-nasal drip without a runny nose?
4) Post-nasal drip may not always start in the nose. It can occur because of gastric issues coming up from below. If you have no nasal or allergy symptoms, try reflux medicine for a week or two and eliminate foods that are known to cause reflux.
How do I know if my cough is from post-nasal drip?
Post-nasal drip symptoms
- cough;
- the need to clear the throat often;
- a ‘tickle’ in the throat or sore throat;
- excess mucus (phlegm) in the throat;
- a blocked or runny nose; and (rarely)
- hoarseness or wheezing when breathing in.
How do you sleep with post-nasal drip?
Additional Tips For Sleeping With Post Nasal Drip and A Stuffy Nose
- Sleep on your side.
- Keep the air quality clean.
- Moisturize your sinuses on a daily basis.
- Adjust the temperature, keep it cool.
- Prop your head up with a pillow.
- And, avoid alcohol and other foods and beverages high in histamine, especially at night.
Which antihistamine is best for post-nasal drip?
Second-generation antihistamines are preferred for allergic postnasal drip because first-generation antihistamines can have more side effects and actually thicken mucus instead of thinning it.
Oral antihistamines
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
Why is postnasal drip worse at night?
One significant problem is that lying down in bed changes your elevation, draining mucus into the upper respiratory airway. The reaction is usually to start coughing and feel the need to frequently clear your throat.
Is Vicks VapoRub good for post-nasal drip?
Hoecker, M.D. Vicks VapoRub — a topical ointment made of ingredients including camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol that you rub on your throat and chest — doesn’t relieve nasal congestion. But the strong menthol odor of VapoRub may trick your brain, so you feel like you’re breathing through an unclogged nose.
Does honey help post-nasal drip?
Manuka OR Raw Local Honey can help with post-nasal drip.
Its antiviral and antibacterial properties can reduce inflammation and attack the bacteria that cause pain. Not only does manuka honey attack harmful bacteria, it also coats the inner lining of the throat for a soothing effect.
How can I get rid of mucus in my throat fast?
Self-care steps
- Gargle with warm salt water. This home remedy can help clear mucus from the back of your throat and may help kill germs.
- Humidify the air.
- Stay hydrated.
- Elevate your head.
- Avoid decongestants.
- Avoid irritants, fragrances, chemicals, and pollution.
- If you smoke, try to stop.
