Post Nasal Drip Cough

Post nasal drip is the result of an excess production of mucus in the sinus cavities, which then flows down to the throat or back of the nose. The excess mucus builds up in the throat or back of the nose to cause post nasal drip cough. Various factors can trigger an overproduction of mucus by the sinuses, to cause post nasal drip. If left untreated, post nasal drip can eventually, lead to sinus infection and infection of the upper respiratory tract.

Post Nasal Drip Causes
Most commonly, post nasal drip cough in children and adults is caused by allergies like hay fever. Many times, it is also caused by cold and flu, rhinitis and sinusitis. Some other conditions that can be associated with post nasal drip cough are laryngopharyngeal acid reflux disease, hormonal changes, pregnancy, certain medications including birth control pills and hypertension medications, some foods and spices, and inhalation of certain irritants like dust, smoke or smog. Even overuse of nasal sprays has also been found to cause post nasal drip in some individuals.

Post Nasal Drip Cough Symptoms
Along with coughing, post nasal drip can be accompanied by many other symptoms. Swallowing and spitting constantly and a tickling sensation in the throat are some of the most common symptoms of post nasal drip cough. Apart from these, congestion in the nasal cavity, especially in the sinus passages, sore throat, broken voice, snorting, clearing the throat constantly, and build up of yellow or white colored crystals in the tonsils are some other important symptoms of post nasal drip. If the mucus secreted from the sinus cavities reaches the stomach, one can experience nausea and vomiting as well.

Post Nasal Drip Cough Treatment
Treatment for post nasal drip cough depends on the underlying causes. So, it is very crucial to determine, whether it is caused by allergy, sinusitis or laryngopharyngeal acid reflux or intake of any medication, as the treatment options for each specific cause differ considerably. For allergy, antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays can be used, while for bacterial infection, antibiotics will be required. If the main cause is cold, then appropriate cold medications will be required for post nasal drip treatment. On the other hand, for laryngopharyngeal acid reflux, acid control medications can be given. However, if there is any structural abnormality in the parts of the nose, then surgery is performed to treat post nasal drip. Know more about post nasal drip: symptoms and treatment.

How to Get Rid of Post Nasal Drip Cough With Home Remedies?
One of the simplest home remedies for post nasal drip cough is saline water. Just add some salt to a glass of warm water, and then gargle twice or thrice daily to get rid of cough, caused by post nasal drip. Saline water can help to loosen up the mucus or phlegm, accumulated in the back of your throat, and relieve cough and congestion. It can also be used for nasal irrigation. For nasal irrigation, you can also add a pinch of baking soda to the saline water. Another effective post nasal drip cough remedy is garlic. Just take two or three garlic daily, and it will improve the ability to fight virus. Similarly, ginger can also provide relief in post nasal drip cough. Find out more information on post nasal drip remedies.

Along with the usual medications and home remedies, staying well hydrated is another important part of post nasal drip cough treatment. So, drink plenty of water, about 7 to 8 glasses of water, as it can help to loosen the mucus. The level of humidity can also play an important role in providing relief in post nasal drip cough. Many times, dry environment has been observed to be associated with post nasal drip. So, maintaining the humidity of the air with a humidifier can help to ease the symptoms of post nasal drip, and enable the patients to breathe easily. A steam bath can also ease cough and other symptoms of post nasal drip. But, if the post nasal drip cough persists for several days, then talk to your physician to find out an effective solution.