Post Nasal Drip Cough

Remedy That Relieves
A potent reason to go natural: Homeopathy serves to be a far safer and gentler remedy for post nasal drip, rather than popping that conventional lozenge. Ingredients like Kali sulph, Kali bich, and Kali mur have been conferred effective to sweep away the mucus buildup, relieve congestion, soothe a sore throat, and restore your health.

Post nasal drip is the result of excess production of mucus in the sinus cavities, which then flows down to the throat or back of the nose, and eventually causes the cough. Various factors can trigger an overproduction of mucus by the sinuses.

If left untreated, post nasal drip can eventually lead to a sinus infection and infection of the upper respiratory tract.

Etiology - The excess mucus secretion that sets off the post nasal drip has various causes, which include the following:
» Cold and flu
» Rhinitis
» Sinusitis or sinus infection
» Hormonal changes or pregnancy
» Allergies (hay fever, allergic post nasal drip)
» Deviated septum (abnormal displacement of a wall that divides two nasal cavities)

» Certain medications (hypertension medications and birth control pills)
» Certain foods (spicy foods which trigger mucus flow)
» Object stuck in the nasal cavity (more common in children)
» Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
» Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
» Changing weather conditions (cold temperatures, or excess dryness)

» Fumes or irritants when inhaled (cleaning products, smoke, chemicals, perfumes)
» Overuse of nasal spray

Indicants for post nasal drip - If an individual shows the following symptoms, he may be diagnosed with post nasal drip.

» Cough
» Fatigue
» Nausea and vomiting
» Chronic sore throat
» Difficulty in breathing
» Constant clearing of the throat
» Congestion in the sinus passage
» Constant wheezing and swallowing

» Frequent spitting
» Mucus and tickling sensation in the back of the throat
» Frontal cranial pressure
» Rhinorrhea (runny nose due to watery mucus flow)
» Broken or cracking voice
» Halitosis (bad breath)
» Burning sensation at the back of the throat

» Cobblestone appearance of the oropharyngeal mucosa
» Snorting (forcibly exhaling the mucus from the nasal passage)
» Ear infection (mucus accretion in the Eustachian tube - connection from throat to middle ear)

Symptomatic Treatment Options - The treatment for post nasal drip depends on the underlying causes.

For sinusitis and viral infections, antihistamines (Allegra, Xyzal, Clarinex) and decongestants might be prescribed. This medication may also be accompanied by either steroid medications or nasal sprays, for better results.

On the other hand, for bacterial infections, antibiotics might be suggested. 
Nasal douche techniques like the neti pot, or saline nasal sprays will help in flushing out the allergens, bacteria, and excess mucus out of the sinuses. The consistency of mucus may vary.

Sticky and thick mucus tends to cause more discomfort than watery mucus. Therefore, thinning the mucus aids in preventing sinus and ear blockage, and this is done by drinking more water and keeping yourself well-hydrated. A mucus-thinning medication like guaifenesin (Mucinex) can also be taken, after consulting your doctor.

A few tips to avoid post nasal drip for individuals who are more prone to allergies, are as follows:

✔ Make use of High-efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters at home.

✔ Dust and vacuum the carpets, sofas, and other interiors regularly.

✔ Bed sheets, mattresses and pillowcases should be washed regularly in hot water.

✔ Always cover your pillowcases and mattresses with dust-proof covers.

✔ Turn on a humidifier to increase the moisture in the air, as this would help you to breathe easy.

.. the mucus has a foul smell.
.. the wheezing and other indicants last for more than ten days.
.. you notice blood stains in your post nasal drip.

n case the medications are not helping you in curing the post nasal drip, then you may need to visit an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) for a further checkup. 

Along with the usual medications and home remedies, staying well-hydrated is another important part of the treatment.

Therefore, drink plenty of water, about 7 to 8 glasses, as it can help loosen the mucus. The level of humidity can also play an important role in providing relief in post nasal drip.

A steam bath can ease the cough and other symptoms of post nasal drip. However, if the drip cough persists for several days, then talk to your physician to find out an effective solution.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for professional medical advice.