Diagnosis of Chronic Post-Nasal Drip

Chronic post-nasal drip can result from many things and seeing a doctor can determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Treatment usually entails a combination of medication and self-care.

Definition

• Post-nasal drip results from excess build up of mucus in the back of the nose. It usually feels like mucus dripping down the back of the throat. This can lead to chronic cough and sore throat, according to Dr. Siamiak Nabili of MedicineNet.com

Causes

• Chronic post-nasal drip can result from chronic nasal conditions (rhinitis and sinusitis), allergies, hormonal changes (pregnancy), certain medications (for birth control and blood pressure), structural problems in the nose, food allergies (particularly dairy), infection and swallowing problems, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO).

Diagnosis

• According to the AAO, to diagnose chronic post-nasal drip you need to undergo a thorough exam of your ears, nose and throat. Other diagnostic tools include an endoscopic exam (a tube that looks inside the body) and X-rays. Pinpointing the cause will determine the most appropriate treatments.

Medication

• Several medications can address post-nasal drip. Examples include antibiotics to clear infections, immunotherapy and antihistamines for allergies, medications for gastroesophageal problems, steroid and other types of nasal sprays to clear congestion and mucus-thinning drugs, according to Nabili.

Self-Care

• Certain self-care measures can also relieve chronic post-nasal drip. They include drinking more fluids to thin secretions, avoiding caffeine, and nasal douching two to four times a day with either prepared solutions available in drug stores or homemade ones mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with one pint of warm water according to the AAO.