The persistent tickle in your throat can be quite bothersome. Sometimes, it even leads to a sore throat and a hoarse voice due to all of the coughing and clearing of the throat. You don’t feel sick, but something is definitely amiss. The likely cause is an excess of mucus, triggering post-nasal drip. This is a really common condition and it is possible to get relief from it.
What activates post-nasal drip?
Mucus is indispensable for protecting our nose and throat from infections. But post-nasal drip can be the outcome when excessive mucus is produced.
Conditions including allergies, sinus infections, and the common cold can all create post-nasal drip. Swelling in the nasal passages, caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or airborne irritants, can also increase mucus production, resulting in congestion and post-nasal drip.
Here are a few other factors that can contribute to post-nasal drip:
- Cold and dry air: The production of mucus can be activated by these weather conditions.
- Spicy foods: These can temporarily elevate mucus production.
- Pregnancy: Increased mucus production can be caused by hormonal changes.
- GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease): Mucus production can be increased when stomach acids back up into the throat because of GERD.
- Bright lights: Mucus is, for some people, triggered by very bright light.
- Aging: As we age, our bodies could produce more mucus.
- Certain medications: Birth control pills and high blood pressure medications can trigger post-nasal drip.
While many people experience post-nasal drip occasionally, it can become chronic for others. If this takes place, consulting with an experienced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is recommended.
Prevalent symptoms of post-nasal drip
Post-nasal drip can present with various symptoms, the most prevalent of which include:
- Frequent swallowing: Frequently due to excess mucus.
- Throat clearing: Needing to continuously clear the throat.
- Bad breath: When mucus accumulates, bad breath can be the outcome.
- Sore throat: Sore and irritated throat.
- Coughing: Coughing can be especially annoying at night.
In extreme cases, post-nasal drip can cause nausea and vomiting because of mucus entering the stomach. Additionally, if the Eustachian tubes (connecting the nose and throat to the middle ear) become obstructed, it can result in painful ear infections.
Treating post-nasal drip effectively
Post-nasal drip can be eased by both prescription and at-home remedies.
Home remedies
- Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water and hot liquids to thin out the mucus.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: Decongestants like Sudafed, and antihistamines like Zyrtec, Allegra, Xyzal, and Claritin, can be effective. Mucinex and Benadryl are also popular choices.
- Use humidifiers and nasal steamers: Adding moisture to the air can stop mucus from thickening.
- Avoid caffeine and diuretics: These can lead to dehydration and thicker mucus.
- Elevate your head: Sleeping with your head raised can prevent mucus from pooling in your throat.
- Nasal irrigation: Mucus can be cleared out with a saline solution.
Be certain to only use OTC medications in accordance with manufacturers recommendations.
When is it time for professional help?
If at-home treatments and OTC medicines don’t give relief, it’s essential to consult with an ENT specialist. Treatment options will depend on the underlying cause but may include prescription-strength nasal sprays or other targeted solutions.
Controlling post-nasal drip
Taking preventive actions can help minimize the frequency of post-nasal drip:
- Change filters regularly: Regularly replace HVAC filters to ensure clean air circulation.
- Use daily allergy medications: Sometimes, taking a daily allergy pill can be helpful.
- Avoid allergens: Recognize and steer clear of allergens that trigger your symptoms.
- Keep a clean environment: Keep a clean, dust-free living space.
- Shower at night: Particularly if you’ve been outside during the day, to remove allergens.
If you suffer from persistent post-nasal drip or if over-the-counter medications are not helping, call us today to explore treatment.