According to FamilyDoctor.org, allergies are a common cause of post-nasal drip. Post-nasal drip is the constant dripping of excess mucus in the back of a person's throat that can lead to a sore throat, coughing and a sour stomach. Post-nasal drip resulting from an allergic reaction is best dealt with by addressing the allergen and the allergic reaction. Once you deal with the allergy, the post-nasal drip will subside, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. A doctor should oversee any treatment you use to ensure safety and accuracy.
Avoidance
The Mayo Clinic states that the best way to treat allergies is to avoid any allergen triggers. A person who is allergic to animal dander should not own a pet or go around pets, and should change her clothing and wash her hands if she touches an animal. Someone suffering from hay fever may need to avoid going outside during high-pollen season and keep the windows and doors shut. If a person is allergic to dust mites, he should purchase dust mite covers for all bedding, maintain a dust-free home and wash all sheets in hot soapy water once a week. Other irritants to avoid are cigarette smoke and pollution, which can irritate your sinuses.
Medication--Antihistamines
Antihistamines and decongestants are used to treat allergies resulting in post-nasal drip, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Antihistamines work by maintaining normal histamine levels in your body, which reduces allergy symptoms such as nasal discharge. Antihistamines also reduce the amount of mucus produced, alleviating post-nasal drip.
Medication--Decongestants
Decongestants help to reduce swelling in your sinus cavity, which breaks up and loosens mucus buildup throughout your head. The Mayo Clinic warns that using a nasal decongestant spray for more than three days can worsen nasal congestion.
Home Remedies
Avoiding caffeine, drinking plenty of water and avoiding diuretics can help improve sinus drainage from allergies, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Killing any visible mold with bleach-water in or around your house also may help to reduce allergies leading to post-nasal drip.
Saline Use
The Mayo Clinic recommends using saline to cleanse and moisten your sinus cavity. Saline nasal sprays are used as a mist to loosen any thick mucus and provide added moisture. Use a sinus rinse or neti pot to wash out your sinus cavity. A sinus rinse uses gravity to pull salt water through your entire nasal cavity.
