The American Academy of Otolaryngology explains that post nasal drip is the excessive dripping of mucus in the back of the throat. In healthy adults, mucus is constantly swallowed unconsciously, but when nasal secretions increase, post nasal drip develops and effects the throat. It can cause coughing, a sore throat and swallowing complications. ENT-Consult.com states that post nasal drip can be the result of pollution, temperature changes, an infection or allergic reaction.
Cause
When a person catches a cold, has an allergic reaction or experiences sudden changes temperature, the sinus cavity can become inflamed and swollen, stopping the normal ability to drain nasal mucus, according to MedlinePlus. The inflamed sinus cavity can cause sinus pressure and a pool of mucus to drip in the back of the throat. ENT-Consult.com states that post nasal drip can be the result of pollution, temperature changes, an infection or allergic reaction. Identifying the cause of post nasal drip is crucial in treating its effects.
Effects
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, excessive amounts of mucus in the throat can cause significant swallowing problems. Excessive secretions can enter the larynx, trachea or bronchi, leading to voice complications, chronic throat-clearing, coughing and hoarseness. Over time, the throat muscles can become weakened, leading to sleeping issues and swallowing coordination issues with age. Post nasal drip also affects the throat with irritation and soreness. The tonsils and throat tissue may swell, even though there is no infection.
Medical Treatment
If the post nasal drip is the result of a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to kill the infection, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Over-the-counter medications to treat the effects of post nasal drip are decongestants, antihistamines, expectorants and cough suppressants. Decongestants reduce swelling in the sinuses, allowing for nasal drainage. Antihistamines help reduce the amount of mucus in the sinuses. Expectorants help to keep the mucus thin enough to be easily dispelled. A cough suppressant is used only when a person develops a chronic cough as a result of post nasal drip.
Home Treatment
According to MedlinePlus, use of saline sprays to moisten the sinus cavity and blowing the nose immediately after each use to expel mucus will help post nasal drip. Running a humidifier in dry conditions and drinking extra fluids will help keep nasal cavities moist and mucus thin. ENT-Consult.com states that drinking hot liquids such as soup broth and herbal teas will thin mucus as well, making expulsion easier.
Considerations
Chronic post nasal drip should be evaluated by an eye, nose and throat doctor to determine the cause. Chronic post nasal drip may be the result of sinusitis, hay fever or nasal deformities.
