Post-nasal drip is the term used to describe the condition in which mucus drips down the back of the throat continually from the sinus cavity. Mucous membranes line the sinus cavity and are used to moisten and cleanse the sinuses. When you get a cold or have an allergic reaction, the mucous membranes swell and over-produce mucus. The excessive mucus becomes trapped in the inflamed sinus cavity and begins to drain in the back of the throat. Post-nasal drip is treatable with a proper diagnosis of the underlying cause. Talk with a doctor if you experience post-nasal drip for more than three days.
Causes
Post-nasal drip is caused by sinusitis, nasal polyps, the common cold and seasonal allergies, according to MedlinePlus. Sinusitis is a sinus infection that is the result of a virus or bacteria affecting the nasal passages. Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths along the lining of the nasal passage that cause irritation and congestion. The common cold viruses cause the sinus cavity to become inflamed, leading to post-nasal drip. Seasonal allergies, such as mold and pollen, produce high levels of histamine in the body that leads to sinus congestion.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of post-nasal drip are nasal discharge, sinus congestion, cough, chest congestion, bad breath and stomach issues. The constant dripping in the back of the throat causes an accumulation of phlegm that can irritate the coughing reflex that leads to constant coughing. Excessive phlegm encourages the growth of bacteria, leading to foul-smelling breath. The stomach may feel uneasy, leading to nausea because of excessive mucus in the stomach.
Diet Consideration
What you eat can cause increased mucus production, perpetuating the condition. The first food item to eliminate from the diet is cow's milk, according to DrWeil.com. Cow's milk proteins stimulate mucus production, which leads to more congestion and phlegm. It may take six to eight weeks of eliminating all cow's milk to see an improvement. Increase the amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet and drink more water. More water consumption helps to thin mucus and rid it from the body.
Treatment
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, treating post-nasal drip begins with treating the condition causing the dripping. For allergies, take an over-the-counter daily antihistamine during allergy season. Post-nasal drip from the common cold or flu is treated with decongestants and cough suppressants. If the sinus congestion is causing sinus pressure pain, take a pain reliever to reduce the pain.
Considerations
Chronic post-nasal drip may be caused by another medical condition and needs to be evaluated by an eye, nose and throat specialist. If a fever develops with sinus congestion and post-nasal drip, talk with a doctor.
