Postnasal drip is a very common, and often very annoying, symptom we hear a lot about at the NY Sinus Center. What is postnasal drip? It is the uncomfortable sensation of mucus building up or dripping down in the back of your throat. It is not a condition or disease itself, but rather a symptom of other underlying problems. Read below to learn how to stop postnasal drip.
Common Causes
Some of the common causes of postnasal drip include:
- Sinus infection
- Cold
- Flu
- Allergies
- Acid reflux
- Dehydration
- Consumption of dairy products
It might sound a little gross, but it is important to know that some mucous drainage is normal, and your body does this on a daily basis.
Why Does This Happen?
The nose and sinuses produce a very thin mucous to trap bacteria, viruses, dust and contaminants. While the nose is cleaning itself, tiny hairs called cilia push mucous toward the back of the throat, where it’s swallowed, usually without us noticing it.
However, health problems like those mentioned above can cause the mucous to feel thick, dry or trapped. This is when it tends to start bothering us.
How to Stop Postnasal Drip
Treating postnasal drip means finding out the source of the problem, and then treating this source. Depending on whether it is a cold, flu, allergies or something else, treatments for these root issues may include:
- Antibiotics
- Nasal sprays
- Antacids
- Over-the-counter medicines
Some Home Remedies
While you are dealing with postnasal drip, certain home remedies may help reduce the intensity of your symptoms. These remedies include:
- Drinking enough hydrating liquids
- Using saline nasal spray
- Creating a “steam room” by sitting in a closed bathroom with the shower on for 10-15 minutes
Is is important to note that each case is unique, and could have different underlying causes. A visit to a doctor is often helpful for finding your unique root cause. Trying to bury symptoms with a bevy of over-the-counter drugs is a short-term fix that can make things worse in the long run. If you need some treatment, give us a call so we can help you.