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 long can 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.
What is the best nasal spray for post nasal drip?
Medicated nasal sprays are another good option for cough caused by post-nasal drip. Azelastine (Astelin, Astepro) and ipratropium (Atrovent) work to reduce runny nose and cough.
Why do I have post nasal drip all the time?
It can happen for a number of reasons: allergies, viral infections (including the common cold), sinus infections, irritants in the air (such as fumes or dust). Less common causes include something stuck inside the nose (common in small children), pregnancy, and certain medications.
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.
Does Flonase stop 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.
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.
Why do I constantly have phlegm in my throat?
When mucus starts to build up or trickle down the back of the throat, the medical name for this is postnasal drip. Causes of postnasal drip include infections, allergies, and acid reflux. A person may also notice additional symptoms, such as: a sore throat.
What happens if post nasal drip is left untreated?
Left untreated, the cough may cause a sore throat which can lead to an ear infection (if it clogs the small tube that runs from the throat to the ear) and a sinus infection (if it clogs the sinus cavities). It’s important to consult with a physician if you suffer with chronic post nasal drip.
How do you get rid of phlegm in the back of your throat?
Self-care steps
- Gargle with warm salt water. This home remedy can help clear mucus from the back of your throat and may help kill germs.
- Humidify the air. …
- Stay hydrated. …
- Elevate your head. …
- Avoid decongestants. …
- Avoid irritants, fragrances, chemicals, and pollution. …
- If you smoke, try to stop.
What is chronic post nasal drip?
Post-nasal drip occurs when your body produces too much mucus or when mucus isn’t draining effectively. It’s a common symptom of colds and other respiratory infections or allergies that have respiratory effects. Virtually everyone experiences post-nasal drip from time to time.
How do you sleep with post nasal drip?
Some doctors recommend sleeping on your side; this can help with the uncomfortable feeling of postnasal drip and make it less likely that you’ll wake up with a sore throat. But be careful if you’re susceptible to ear infections, as lying this way can cause fluid to run to one side.
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.
Does Benadryl help with post nasal drip?
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.