They can also be effective, along with steroid nasal sprays, for postnasal drip caused by allergies. The older, over-the-counter antihistamines, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), might not be the best choices for postnasal drip.
What is the best medicine to stop post nasal drip?
Over-the-counter decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help reduce congestion and eliminate postnasal drip. Newer, nondrowsy antihistamines like loratadine-pseudoephedrine (Claritin) can work to get rid of postnasal drip. However, these are more effective after you take them for several days.
How do you get rid of post nasal drip fast?
A simple way to thin it out is to drink more water. Other methods you can try include: Take a medication such as guaifenesin (Mucinex). Use saline nasal sprays or irrigation , like a neti pot, to flush mucus, bacteria, allergens, and other irritating things out of the sinuses.
What dries up sinus drainage in throat?
“Decongestants dry up the mucus that collects in the back of the throat as a result of the infection. Expectorants melt the mucus.” Look for over-the-counter decongestants that contain pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, such as Sudafed.
How can I stop post nasal drip at night?
Now what?
- A humidifier or steam inhalation (as during a hot shower)
- Keeping well-hydrated (to keep the mucus thinner)
- Sleep on propped up pillows, to keep the mucus from collecting at the back of your throat.
- Nasal irrigation (available over-the-counter)
How long can a post nasal drip last?
It is best to treat postnasal drip early to avoid complications, and people should see a doctor for any symptoms that last for more than 10 days.
Will flonase help with post nasal drip?
Nasal steroid sprays are effective at treating postnasal drip because they reduce the amount of mucus that causes coughing, sinus pressure, and sore throats. Flonase and Rhinocort are examples of nasal sprays that are used to treat allergic rhinitis, which is a recurring postnasal drip due to allergies.
Does salt water help post nasal drip?
Saltwater washes (saline lavage or irrigation) help keep the nasal passages open by washing out thick or dried mucus. They can also help improve the function of cilia that help clear the sinuses . This can help stop an infection from spreading to the other sinuses and reduce post-nasal drip .
Can you have post nasal drip for years?
7 When post nasal drip is the only symptom of a sinus infection, it is usually because the infection is a low-grade “smoldering” infection that has been going on for months, and sometimes even for years.
Can post nasal drip be cured?
Postnasal drip can, in fact, be cured, but only once the underlying cause is discovered. How postnasal drip is treated depends on the reason it exists in the first place.
Is Zyrtec or Claritin better for post nasal drip?
Studies have shown equal effectiveness for Zyrtec and Claritin for allergic rhinitis and urticaria. Studies have not compared the effects of Zyrtec and Claritin for conditions such as postnasal drip, but research suggests intranasal antihistamines such as azelastine are more effective.
What dries up mucus naturally?
Drinking enough liquids, especially warm ones, can help your mucus flow. Water can loosen your congestion by helping your mucus move. Try sipping anything from juice to clear broths to chicken soup. Other good liquid choices include decaffeinated tea and warm fruit juice or lemon water.
What foods stop post nasal drip?
Cut back on dairy products – Many people suffering from post-nasal drip swear that giving up or at least cutting back on dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese reduces mucus production and eases their symptoms.
Why is my post nasal drip worse at night?
Because mucus contains inflammatory elements that can cause irritation, common symptoms also include a sore throat, hoarseness and a cough. Postnasal drip is generally more noticeable at night, especially when you are lying down to sleep.
Does apple cider vinegar help post nasal drip?
The acid in apple cider vinegar thins out mucous in the throat. This helps the mucous to move out of your respiratory system more quickly. Loosening phlegm can help you feel like you’re on the way to recovery.
Can post nasal drip drain into lungs?
Conclusion: These results suggest that thicker viscous postnasal drip can flow into the respiratory organs when the host is asleep. In addition, postnasal drip which flows into the trachea can move gradually to the oral side by mucociliary transportation of the tracheal mucosa and thus be swallowed.