Post Nasal Drip Remedies

Several glands present in the nose produce mucus everyday (1-2 quarts). This mucus regulates the cleaning of the nasal passage. The chief functions of the mucus are, cleaning the nasal membranes, humidifying air, trap and get rid of foreign particle and moisten the nasal passage. But sometimes, due to some reasons, this mucus is produced excessively and it gets accumulated in the regions behind the nose and the throat. This condition is called post nasal drip (PND). The excess mucus produced can be too thick or too thin and the condition is quite irritating.

There are several factors that can result into post nasal drip. This includes, allergies, cold and flu, sinus infections, rhinitis, acid reflux, medications, pregnancy, etc. The symptoms of post nasal drip are, swollen throat, stuck mucus at the back of throat, dripping of the mucus, cough, hoarse voice, etc. The condition is so frustrating, that you want to get rid of the mucus at the earliest. This is not a serious problem and hence, you need not make a visit to the doctor. Check out some of the remedies given below.

Remedies for Post Nasal Drip

If you are suffering from post nasal drip, then it is necessary that you take some quick action to avoid further complications. There are plenty of remedies for post nasal drip that can be used for effective results. Many of these remedies help you to get rid of the mucus by drying up, thinning or loosening the mucus.

Drink Fluids: It is necessary that you drink lots of liquids, when you have post nasal drip. Fluid drinking is an effective treatment, when you want to get relieved from the mucus, that is stuck on pharynx region. Drinking fluids helps to drain down the excess mucus into the stomach, where the mucus is destroyed. You can try different types of fluids like, any fruit juice, water, herbal teas, etc. Drinking at least 8 ounces of water is a must when you have post nasal drip.

Avoid Dairy Products: It is mandatory that you completely avoid consumption of dairy products. Many of the dairy products have been considered as triggering factors for post nasal drip. This is because, the content of the dairy products contributes to the thickening and the over production of mucus in your nasal passage, thus, this may worsen the condition.

Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with salt water, has been an age-old post nasal drip remedy. You can use this remedy as an initial treatment. Take half tablespoon of salt and add it to a glass of warm water. Gargle with this mixture thrice a day. This will help to clear the excessive mucus stored in the nasal passage.

Steam Bath: Steam bath is a very simple post nasal drip home remedy. This will help to clear the mucus, that has accumulated in your throat or the nasal passage. You can use a facial steamer or simply boil some water in a utensil and hold your face on the steam, coming from the boiled water. Getting a steam bath, will thin the excess mucus and relieve you from post nasal drip. You can add small quantities of ginger and salt to the boiling water to make the steam bath more effective.

Plant Extract: Certain plant extracts like cinnamon and thyme can help to relieve the irritation caused due to post nasal drip. Many of these plant extracts like cinnamon contain antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, thus they improve your immune system. You can consume 125 mg of cinnamon extract every morning, when you have post nasal drip. Thyme is also useful plant extract that loosens the excess mucus. You can even use this extract to get rid of the post nasal drip.

These were some important post nasal remedies that can be used to alleviate the irritation. If the symptoms of post nasal remedies persist even after trying out the home remedies, then you must consult a doctor immediately. The doctor will diagnose the cause and provide the post nasal drip cure accordingly.