Second-generation antihistamines are preferred for allergic post-nasal drip because they don’t make you sleepy (unlike the first-generation antihistamines). Each of these are available over the counter as low-cost generics: Loratadine (Claritin) Fexofenadine (Allegra)
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.
Is Allegra good for mucus?
When they dry out mucus, they can actually thicken it. Newer antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin, Alavert), fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Zyrtec), levocetirizine (Xyzal), and desloratadine (Clarinex), may be better options and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Is Allegra or Zyrtec better for post nasal drip?
Studies have not compared the effects of Allegra and Zyrtec for conditions such as postnasal drip, but research suggests intranasal antihistamines such as azelastine are more effective.
How do you get rid of sinus drainage in your throat?
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.
- Turn on a vaporizer or humidifier to increase the moisture in the air.
Why do I always have post nasal drip?
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.
Which is better Claritin or Allegra?
Allegra and Claritin are both effective at relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis compared to using no medication at all. However, Claritin has been shown to provide more overall symptom relief compared to Allegra. It has also been shown to provide overall relief faster than Allegra.
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 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.
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 Zyrtec help with post nasal drip?
Thin postnasal drip secretions caused by allergies may be treated with antihistamines. Second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin may offer better relief than older-type antihistamines such as promethazine (older antihistamines tend to thicken post-nasal secretions).
Does fluticasone 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.
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.
What nasal spray helps with 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 my sinuses drain down my throat?
Spicy food, cold and dry air, fumes or smoke, and other factors can also cause mucus to run out of the sinuses faster than normal. When you produce excess mucus and it goes down your throat, making you feel as though you constantly have to clear mucus from your throat, that’s post-nasal drip.