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Post Nasal Drip Treatments

Postnasal drip is a common term for the excess mucus your sinuses produce. Colds, allergies and flu can cause the sinuses to overeact. Often, sufferers feel the secretions dripping down their throats. Postnasal drip can be clear or thick and often can precede a sore throat, cough or ear infection. You can gain some relief with several different treatments.

  1. At Home

    • Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Juice is a good source of vitamin C, and warm broth sometimes relieves congestion. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the room's air. Make a saline nose spray solution by mixing 1e pint of water and 1 teaspoon of salt or baking soda. Each of these home remedies helps to thin the mucus, causing it to pass through your sinuses, nose and throat more easily. If your postnasal drip is triggered by allergies, avoid whatever triggers your specific allergy (dust, certain plants, animals, for example).

    Over-the-Counter Treatment

    • Antihistamines help reduce mucus production, and decongestants help reduce nasal inflammation and stuffiness. Both of these medications come in liquid, pill or nasal spray form. If your postnasal drip triggers a cough, try guaifenesin, which is available as a liquid or pill. Many over-the-counter cold medications contain a combination of these drugs. Check the label on any medication before taking it to see possible restrictions and side effects. Some cold medicines are off-limits to people with hypertension, heart problems, thyroid disease and pregnant and nursing mothers. Also, check to see if the medication causes drowsiness; some labels recommend that you refrain from driving and/or operating machinery when you're taking them.

    Prescriptions

    • If your symptoms don't improve after 10 to 14 days, or if you have accompanying symptoms, such as a rash, joint pain or fever of 102 degrees or higher, consult your doctor. If allergies are to blame, your doctor might refer you to an allergy specialist. If your doctor determines that you have a bacterial infection, such as a sinus infection or strep throat, she will prescribe an antibiotic. Make sure to take the entire course of the antibiotic, even if you feel better before you're done. Your physician also might prescribe a stronger form of antihistamine, decongestant or cough medicine.

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