How to Stop Post-Nasal Drip

Having a runny, drippy nose is worse than having a nose that is all stuffed up. That annoying, constant need to wipe or blow your nose can drive a sane person crazy. Whether a side effect of allergies or a virus, post-nasal drip can be a serious problem that needs to be dealt with.

Things You'll Need

• Salt
• Aspirator
• Humidifier

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Blow it. Blowing your nose often is such a simple concept that many people overlook it. Post-nasal drip occurs when the normal flow of lubricating mucus in your nose becomes thicker and doesn't flow away down the back of your nose and throat. These thicker drops take the fastest way out of your nose, dripping out the front. Giving your nose a good blow every hour can clear away that excess mucus and slow or stop the drip.

• 2

  Flood it out. A salt water rinse can help dry up that excess mucus, and stop the post-nasal drip. Mix a half of a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water and fill an aspirator, tilt your head back and slowly breathe in the salt water. It may sting or be uncomfortable at first, but you'll soon get used to it. When you are done, blow your nose to get rid of any excess water.

• 3

  Drop the dairy. Dairy foods can help create excess mucus. Foods such as milk contain sugar that helps feed the bacteria and leads to more mucus buildup. Stop the post-nasal drip by cutting out dairy.

• 4

  Soak up some liquids. Keeping those mucus membranes in your nose well-lubricated so that the mucus doesn't get thick and start dripping is the goal. Drinking lots of water, herbal tea or just water with lemon can help. Hook up a humidifier so that the air you breathe is also moist.

• 5

  Chill out. The sinus area is part of the nervous system. When it gets stressed, you may get post-nasal drip. So relax, and drink a cup of herbal tea.