According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO), post-nasal drip is the accumulation in the throat of the mucus that is normally present in the nose. This can be caused by allergies, dry air, hormonal changes, pregnancy or the common cold. While post-nasal drip, along with the nasal discharge that often accompanies it, is annoying, MedLine Plus states that it is rarely a serious condition. There are some steps that you can take at home to cure post-nasal drip.
Step 1
Blow your nose. MotherNature.com suggests blowing your nose often in order to remove some of the nasal drainage. This will prevent it from running down your throat.
Step 2
Gargle with saltwater. MotherNature.com also recommends mixing a half teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water. This salty solution will help remove uncomfortable secretions from your throat.
Step 3
Moisten the throat passages to help the mucus pass more easily. The AAO recommends a combination of drinking more fluids, avoiding caffeine and avoiding medications that may increase urination and increase dehydration whenever possible.
Step 4
Moisten the nasal passages. According to MedLine Plus and the AAO, this can be accomplished by running a humidifier or using non-prescription saline nasal drops.
Step 5
Consider using a neti pot. MotherNature.com suggests using a neti pot, a small teapot-shaped receptacle designed for irrigating the nasal passages. (See Resources for specific neti-pot instructions.)
Step 6
Consider using an over-the-counter medication. The AAO recommends guaifenesin, a mucus-thinning ingredient in Robitussin. MotherNature.com suggests non-prescription decongestants to relieve congestion and provide relief.
Step 7
Visit your doctor if you have a fever, or if symptoms last longer than three weeks. MedLine Plus also suggests seeing a doctor if the mucus is any color other than white or yellow, or if you have pain or discharge on only one side. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antihistamines or prescription decongestants, or may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist for further testing.
Tips and Warnings
- Post-nasal drip can also be caused by acid reflux, according to MotherNature.com. Consider looking into this possibility if you are bothered by post-nasal drip.
Things You'll Need
- Saline drops
- Humidifier
- Neti pot
- Over-the-counter medications
