Constant nasal drainage in the back of the throat can lead to a chronic cough. According to the University of Maryland, post nasal drip is a condition where excess mucus is forced to drip down the throat because the nostrils are clogged and congested, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A common result of post nasal drip is coughing due to mucus buildup in the throat. Treating post nasal drip cough begins with addressing the cause of the nasal drainage, such as allergies, a cold or a nasal deformity. A doctor should assess a patient before attempting a treatment.
Natural Treatment
Post nasal drip cough can be treated by implementing a few natural treatments, according to Andrew Weil on his website. He recommends removing dairy products from the diet. Dairy products are mucus-producing and can cause post nasal drip to worsen or last longer. Gargling with saltwater a few times a day helps to cleanse the back of the throat and calm the cough. The Weil website states that nasal irrigation in the form of a neti pot or nasal rinse can help treat post nasal drip cough.
Cough Medication
The most popular cough medicines available OTC are dextromethorphan and guaifenesin, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by blocking the body's cough reflux. This is helpful when post nasal drip cough develops a tickle in the back of throat and becomes increasingly consistent. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. Its primary function is to thin mucus that enables coughs to be more effective at moving phlegm out of the throat, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Many OTC brands combine various medications. Consumers need to read the active ingredients in each medication so they do not accidentally overdose.
Other Medication
The American Academy of Otolaryngology states that other medications, such as decongestants and antihistamines, can help treat post nasal drip cough. Because the cough is the result of dripping mucus, eliminating the mucus will help cure the cough. Decongestants work to reduce inflammation in the sinus cavity, allowing mucus to drain more efficiently, which causes post nasal drip to subside. Decongestants can make blood pressure rise, according to the American of Otolaryngology. They should be used under a doctor's recommendation. Antihistamines are commonly used to prevent and treat allergic reactions but are also used to help stop a runny nose or post nasal drip by drying up the mucus in the head, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Antihistamines may cause drowsiness so they should be used with caution.
