How Long Does Post Nasal Drip 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 persons immune response. Whereas, post nasal drip caused by seasonal allergies may cause symptoms to flare up suddenly and disappear after just a short time.
Post nasal drip that occurs as a result of medications should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Typically, symptoms of post nasal drip will disappear shortly after a person has stopped taking the medication. WARNING: Consult your doctor before making any changes to your medications.
Chronic sinusitis patients may experience recurring post nasal drip for months or longer.
The duration of post nasal drip often depends on two important factors: the cause and the treatment. Post nasal drip is more or less a symptom of other conditions, with some ailments taking longer to get rid of than others.
In many cases, the duration, severity, and/or frequency of post nasal drip can be lessened and controlled through one/or a combination of natural, over-the-counter, and prescription remedies. Consult a physician for more information and options related to the underlying causes and treatments for specific cases of post nasal drip.
Drink Fluids Especially Hot Fluids
Drink a lot of fluids to thin out mucus. The thinner the mucus, the easier it can pass through your nasal cavities.
Drinking fluids will also moisturize your nasal lining. Hot drinks, like tea or broth, are the best choice. The warmth of these beverages will thin your mucus.
Avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee, caffeinated tea, or soda. Caffeine has a diuretic effect, which may increase your risk of dehydration.
How Can I Stop Coughing From Postnasal Drip At Night
One of the symptoms caused by postnasal drip is coughing. Coughing can make it difficult to sleep at night, which put further stress on the body. One of the best ways to ease coughing at night is to take preventive actions throughout the day. Staying hydrated, gargling with salt water, or doing nasal irrigation with a neti pot will help get rid of excess mucus that causes coughing. At night, sleeping with your head slightly elevated can help keep irritants from reaching the back of your throat and nose, which causes coughing. Sleeping with a humidifier next to the bed can help the throat feel less irritated, which could help reduce coughing.
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Postnasal Drip Treatment Options
Treatment options for postnasal drip depend on the underlying symptoms for each individual. For mild cases of postnasal drip there are a variety of natural and home remedies that can help the condition from gargling with salt water to nasal irrigation. For more severe or chronic cases of postnasal drip, there are OTC and prescription medications options. We will discuss all viable treatment options in the sections that follow.
What Are The Best Treatments To Stop Post
Glands found in your nose, throat, and several other parts of your body produce up to two quarts of mucus a day. Although people tend to think of mucus as an annoyance, it serves several important functions, including humidifying and cleansing air before it reaches your lungs. It also plays an important role in clearing away foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses before they can get into your body and cause an infection.
Normally, youre not aware of this process because the mucus mixes with saliva and drips harmlessly down the back of your throat, where its swallowed gradually and continuously throughout the day.
When your body produces more mucus than usual, you may experience a runny nose with excess mucus coming out of the front of your nose. When the mucus instead runs down the back of your nose and into your throat to the point where you can feel it, its called post-nasal drip.In this blog, the specialists at DFW Sinus Select will explain the best treatments to stop post-nasal drip.
The excess mucus production that triggers post-nasal drip has a number of possible causes, including:
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Why Do You Experience It
Postnasal drip frequently occurs when you are exposed to an allergen, such as pollen, dander, dust, etc. If there are potential triggers in the air, like air pollution, harsh cleaners, or strong perfumes, this could trigger it. Certain weather, like cold, dry winter air, can also be a cause. Sinus infections and viral infections are also culprits.1,2
When Should I Go To A Doctor
A post-nasal drip can be cured at home without even going to a doctor. If bacteria are the cause, the following symptoms suggest that you should see a doctor.
- Yellow, green or brown mucus which is thickly draining from the nose or from behind the throat
- Bleeding nose or blood discharge when you clear your throat.
- Repeated fevers.
- If the phlegm of the throat and the mucus of the nose smells really bad.
- Change or hoarseness of voice.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, its time you visit the doctor.
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Does Apple Cider Vinegar Work For Postnasal Drip
According to anecdotal evidence, apple cider vinegar can help postnasal drip.
Some people breathe in apple cider vinegar by sniffing the bottle. Others drink diluted apple cider vinegar in tea or warm water. The idea is that the strong odor and taste of apple cider vinegar can loosen mucus.
But theres no evidence that this method works. Apple cider vinegar for postnasal drip has never been studied. Additionally, drinking apple cider vinegar can damage your teeth, especially if its undiluted.
If you want to use this remedy, do so with caution.
In addition to home remedies, you can try over-the-counter treatments. These remedies are available at the drugstore or grocery store without a prescription.
Breakthrough Treatment For Chronic Rhinitis & Postnasal Drip
As he grew older, 42-year-old Jon Balter developed severe chronic rhinitis and sought help from allergists and ENTs for nearly a decade. After trying allergy shots and a variety of medications without success, he was referred by his allergist to , who used a breakthrough cooling technology to treat the disorder successfully.
ClariFix® is a quick office-based procedure for the application of cryotherapy to nerves that control the rate of mucus production in the nose, says Dr. Citardi, chief of otorhinolaryngology at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and professor and chair of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth. We anesthetize the patients nose in our procedure room and apply the treatment to each side. After anesthesia, the treatment takes about two minutes. Because no IV sedation or general anesthesia is required, people return to normal activity after leaving the office.
Balter underwent the procedure in November 2017. It was not bad at all, he recalls. Having the anesthesia applied was slightly uncomfortable, and after that Dr. Citardi inserted an applicator. The only sensation I had was a slight feeling of coldness. From arrival in his office to finish, including paperwork, it took a little less than an hour.
Patients typically notice a difference within one to two days after the procedure. At one week, they should experience the full benefit.
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Allergies Infections Acid Reflux And More
Post-nasal drip, also called upper airway cough syndrome , is a common disorder. It can be caused by colds, allergies, acid reflux, and other conditions.
It happens when the amount or quality of the mucus that’s typically produced in the airways has changed and is now causing irritation. Treatment for post-nasal drip depends on the cause of the condition.
This article explains post-nasal drip and some common symptoms that occur. It looks at six possible causes of post-nasal drip and some ways your symptoms can be treated at home.
Verywell / Julie Bang
What Are The Symptoms Of Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip can cause an irritated sore throat. Your tonsils and other tissues in your throat may swell up, leading to discomfort. You may feel like theres a lump in the back of your throat. Other symptoms of postnasal drip may include:
- A feeling of mucus draining into your throat.
- Frequent swallowing.
- Cough that bothers you more at night.
- Nausea and vomiting from excess mucus draining to your stomach.
Postnasal drip can also cause painful ear infections if mucus clogs up your Eustachian tubes. Your Eustachian tubes are what connect your nose and throat to your middle ears.
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When To See A Doctor For Post Nasal Drip
In most cases, post nasal drip is not immediately dangerous. However, if post nasal drip symptoms persist for more than 10 days, its recommended to contact a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment recommendations
Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if you have any of the following symptoms along with post nasal drip:
- Blood in your mucus
What Exactly Is Post
Before we get to treatments for post-nasal drip, lets make sure were all on the same page about what that phrase even means.
First off, its important to know that theres nothing abnormal about mucus being in your throat. Your nose and throat are connected , so mucus ends up in your throat all the time. Usually, you just swallow it without ever noticing its there.
The key phrase there is without ever noticing. If so much mucus is gathering in your throat that you can tell its there, and its bothering you, then youre dealing with post-nasal drip.
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What Is Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip refers to mucus from the nose or sinuses draining into the throat. A person may complain of having nasal congestion and a sensation of mucus dripping from the back of their nose. When a healthcare provider does an examination, they may see mucus dripping into the throat and inflammation in the nose and throat. A combination of symptoms and a physical examination can help your healthcare provider diagnose postnasal drip.
What About Prescription Treatments
If these approaches aren’t effective, prescription treatments may be the next best steps, including:
- A nasal steroid spray
- Ipratropium nasal spray which inhibits secretions
Other treatments depend on the cause of the post-nasal drip. Antibiotics are not usually helpful, so they aren’t usually prescribed for post-nasal drip . For allergies, dusting and vacuuming often, covering your mattresses and pillowcases, and special air filter can help reduce exposure to allergy triggers.
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Why Does Post Nasal Drip Cause Cough
The mucus greatly irritates the throat and post nasal drip causes inflammation in throat, which gives a choking sensation. So the affected person has to constantly cough to drain or clear the throat. Sometimes the cough becomes a chronic one and usually worsens at night when you lie down.
Fortunately, in case of post nasal drip, coughs are usually helpful. These productive coughs help to produce mucus and help to drain or clear the throat and lungs. As a matter of fact, it has been reported that post nasal drip is one of the most common reasons of chronic cough.
What Are The Treatment Options
Diagnosing post-nasal drip may include a detailed ear, nose, and throat exam, endoscopy , or X-rays. Post-nasal drip can be difficult to cure, and treatment varies according to the cause:
Related Conditions
Several other conditions may feel like post-nasal drip but are swallowing problems caused by a backup of solids or liquids in the throat. Conditions that may be related to post-nasal drip include:
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Where Can I Find Treatment For Post
DFW Sinus Select is a practice dedicated to the care, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to the nose and sinuses. At DFW Sinus Select, our board-certified physicians provide compassionate, state-of-the-art care that utilizes the complete spectrum of diagnostics to correctly identify the cause of your issues.
We also offer the latest minimally invasive treatments for the nose, sinuses, and allergies and will determine if one of these long-lasting treatments is appropriate in your case.
If youre looking for relief and effective treatment of post-nasal drip, schedule an appointment with DFW Sinus Select today!
Antacids And Anti Nausea Medication
For temporary relief of nausea, take over the counter antacids or anti nausea medication. If the problem gets worse, you can make an appointment with your doctor and he can prescribe you a prescription strength anti nausea medication. These medications will work short term, but will not clear up the problem. In order to fully solve the issue, you need to work with your doctor to clear up your post nasal drip 12.
- For temporary relief of nausea, take over the counter antacids or anti nausea medication.
- If the problem gets worse, you can make an appointment with your doctor and he can prescribe you a prescription strength anti nausea medication.
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Upper Airway Cough Syndrome
Upper airway cough syndrome is treated with first-generation antihistamines and medicines taken as tablets. A response to treatment helps confirm the diagnosis. Decongestants should only be used for a short time.
Talk to your doctor if you are constantly clearing your throat or have an irritating cough. Finding out the cause of your symptoms and treating the cause should make you feel a lot more comfortable.
What Can I Expect If I Have Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip is very common and has many different causes. While the condition isnt usually serious, it can be annoying. With some over-the-counter medications and other home remedies, it should clear up on its own.
If you have repeated cases of postnasal drip or other symptoms along with it, reach out to your healthcare provider. You may have a bacterial infection or other condition that requires medical care.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Post
Symptoms of post-nasal drip can include:
- Feeling of mucus drainage into the throat
- Frequent swallowing
- Sore irritated throat
- Feeling a lump in the throat
In children, thick or foul-smelling secretions from one side of the nose can mean that something is stuck in the nose such as a bean, wadded paper, or piece of a toy. If these symptoms are observed, seek a physician for examination.
Post-nasal drip often leads to a sore, irritated throat. Although there is usually no infection, the tonsils and other tissues in the throat may swell. This can cause discomfort or a feeling that there is a lump in the throat. Successful treatment of the post-nasal drip will usually clear up these throat symptoms.
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Causes of post-nasal drip can include:
- Bacterial infections
- Vasomotor rhinitis
- Medications that thicken mucus
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Age
Thin clear secretions can be due to colds and flu, allergies, cold temperatures, bright lights, certain foods or spices, pregnancy, and other hormonal changes. Various drugs and irregular nose cartilage can also produce increased mucus.
Thick secretions in winter often result from dryness in heated spaces. They can also come from sinus or nose infections and allergies, especially to foods such as dairy products. If thin secretions become thick, and turn green or yellow, it is possible that a bacterial sinus infection is developing.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Post Nasal Drip
Post nasal drip is most commonly identified by the accumulation and drainage of mucus down the back of the nose and throat. People who experience post nasal drip may have other common symptoms, including:
- A frequently clearing of the throat
- A sore or scratchy throat
- A feeling like a lump or something stuck in the throat
- A cough or hack that is often worse in the evening
- Constant spitting or swallowing of mucus
- A feeling of nausea due to excessive mucus in the stomach
- Bad breath
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What Causes Postnasal Drip
- Certain medications, including some for birth control and blood pressure
- Deviated septum, which is the crooked placement of the wall that separates the two nostrils, or some other problem with the structure of the nose that affects the sinuses
- Changing weather, cold temperatures, or really dry air
- Certain foods
- Fumes from chemicals, perfumes, cleaning products, smoke, or other irritants
Sometimes the problem is not that you’re producing too much mucus, but that it’s not being cleared away. Swallowing problems can cause a buildup of liquids in the throat, which can feel like postnasal drip. These problems can sometimes occur with age, a blockage, or conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.
How Do I Take Care Of Myself If I Have Postnasal Drip
There are many things you can do at home to help clear up your postnasal drip. You may need more fluids to thin out your secretions. Home remedies may include:
- Drink more water.
- Cut out caffeine.
- Avoid diuretics, if possible.
You can also try a mucus-thinning medication such as guaifenesin . These may make your secretions thinner. Saline nasal irrigations lessen thickened secretions. Saline nasal sprays can help moisten your nose.
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Home Treatments For Postnasal Drip
You can turn to a number of home treatments to relieve the symptoms of postnasal drip. Over-the-counter decongestants like pseudoephedrine can help reduce congestion and eliminate postnasal drip.
Newer, nondrowsy antihistamines like loratadine-pseudoephedrine can work to get rid of postnasal drip. However, these are more effective after you take them for several days.
Saline nasal sprays can help moisten your nasal passages and reduce symptoms of postnasal drip. If you have continual problems with postnasal drip, your doctor may prescribe a cortisone steroid nasal spray. Sinus irrigation tools like neti pots or sinus rinses like those from NeilMed can also flush out excess mucus.
Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can also promote proper drainage.
Staying hydrated is just as important to prevent postnasal drip as it is to treat it. Drinking warm or hot liquid, like tea or chicken soup, can thin out mucus and prevent dehydration. And as always, dont forget to drink plenty of water. This also thins out mucus and keeps your nasal passages moistened, relieving discomfort.
