Introduction To Post Nasal Drip: Causes And Alternative Treatment Options

Many people experience spells of sore throat, a hacking cough or you may as well be clearing your throat in the morning as a result of the above, but, what you may not know is that you may be experiencing what is known as post nasal drip.

 

PNS usually becomes an issue because something has altered the nature of your mucus, either making it lighter or thicker than usual. Post nasal drip is a phenomenon which occurs when excess mucus is produced by the nasal cavity. 

 

The excessive mucus then settles and accumulates in the back of the nose. This article will take a look at a few of the factors which lead to this condition, as well as what you can do so as to treat it as well as the symptoms that come with it.

 

Causes Of Post Nasal Drip

· Rhinitis.

· Sinusitis.

· Gastroesophageal.

· Reflux disease.

· Esophageal motility disorder.

 

As a result of this condition, you may develop difficulty when it comes to swallowing of both solids and liquids alike. When the nerves in your mouth and throat fail to cohesively function, overflow secretions may end up spilling into your larynx, trachea and bronchi, ultimately causing the hoarseness in your voice.

 

In most cases, post nasal drip often leads to a sore/irritated throat. The irritation may cause you a bit of discomfort due to the feeling of a lump inside your throat. The good thing is that there is usually zero infection, and with successful treatment, such symptoms will go away under a week.

 

Treatment

In order to ensure success when treating this ailment, you will need to undergo a thorough diagnosis which entails detailed examination of your ears, nose and throat. You may also require laboratory, x-ray studies and endoscopic procedures. Depending on the test results, your doctor may recommend any of the following treatment options:

· Simple bacterial infections may be easily treated using antibiotics, providing temporary relief. In case of more severe sinusitis, there is the option of undergoing surgery, so as to open the blocked sinuses.

· Antihistamines and other forms of steroids such as cortisone type, may offer relief from any allergies. Alternatively, you may also use immunotherapy by forms of either shots or sublingual.

· Any instances of Gastroesophageal reflux can be treated by simply elevating the head of the bed by a couple of inches, avoiding certain foods and beverages (alcohol and caffeine) up to 4hours before going to bed.

· You may manage/treat some of the symptoms associated with post nasal drip by gargling a mixture of warm water and salt. It helps sooth the throat soreness.

 

To avoid any dangerous medical repercussions, you need to remember to keep off any additional medications. This means that you should never self medicate, by getting the over the counter drugs.

 

On the other hand, humidifiers, saline mist and nit pots have been observed to be really helpful in dealing with this condition. If you notice that your mucus is thick and dark, it is in your best interest to keep away from dairy products, and off spicy foods if it is light.

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