Sinus Drainage in Throat

Inflammation of the sinus cavities and nasal passages is called sinus infection. Millions of people are troubled by at least one episode of sinus infection per year. Some allergens or pollutants trigger acute sinusitis infections. A viral infection which damages the sinus lining, results in inflammation of the lining. This causes obstruction of the nasal passage that is connected to the sinuses. Bacteria present in the normal flora of the nasal passage then grow and multiply in the sinus lining. Sinus headache, nasal drip, pressure under the eye, sore throat, fever, sinus pain are some of the main sinus infection signs and symptoms.

Causes of Sinus Drainage in Throat

Constant sinus drainage can be very annoying and bothersome. Actually, sinus drainage occurs regularly when you are perfectly healthy. Several times in a day, you swallow saliva and mucus produced by the lungs, nose, throat and sinuses. You notice it only when that drainage causes a strep throat, or is so thick that it is hard to swallow. Abnormal drainage can result in an upset stomach. You should find out the cause behind constant drainage in throat, so that the treatment can be designed accordingly.

If the cause of excessive drainage in the throat is a simple cold and flu, then you may take proper medications after consulting your physician. But if the reason behind draining sinuses is an allergy, you should first take action to eliminate the triggers in your environment (pet dander, laundry detergent, flowers, etc.) so that the drainage stops altogether. A number of health conditions and environmental factors, such as extreme temperature changes, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), can cause sinus drainage. It is usually experienced in the back of the throat and is the result of some type of infection, like bacteria obstructing normal drainage from the sinus cavities.

Home Remedies to Stop Sinus Drainage

Massage: Massage to the nose and part around the nose can help stop the drainage. Acupressure along with facial massage works great for draining sinuses.

Antihistamines: It should be noted that antihistamines would not be the best choice in dealing with the drainage experienced during a cold or flu. Antihistamines can actually thicken the mucus, blocking the path of the drainage and possibly leading to an infection.

Drinking Plenty of Water: Drinking plenty of water and increasing intake of fluids help cure sinus drainage owing to allergies and environmental factors. Proper hydration can thin out your mucus secretions which can help get rid of the problem fast. You can drink plenty of fluids except for dehydrating ones like alcohol and caffeine.

Decongestants: You can opt for a decongestant and a painkiller. But it is important to read the label carefully and consult your doctor, before taking any medicine. If decongestants do not offer adequate relief, you can use a decongestant nasal spray. Remember, you should not use a spray for longer than four days, since long term use can result in a rebound nasal congestion.

Nasal Irrigation: Sinus infection treatment also involves making use of nasal irrigation. You may try shooting a mixture of water and saline into the sinus cavity which will help clear up the cavity as it will drain right back out of the nose. You can use a neti pot which provides an efficient way of practicing nasal irrigation.

Steam Inhalation: Steam inhalation is the safest and easiest natural sinus remedy which works great for sinus drainage and sore throat. To avoid constant drainage in throat, you should take proper steps to relieve the nasal blockage by draining the sinuses of the accumulated mucus. Steam inhalation is the perfect way of clearing up sinuses. Before steam inhalation, you may add a few drops of lemon oil or eucalyptus oil to the boiling water as this will help get rid of headache and sinus pain fast.

Antibiotics: The infection and the drainage accumulated in throat can result in a painful throat. You might experience increased sinus drainage in throat at night. Lying down can worsen the problem. In such cases, your physician might prescribe antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection. These antibiotics are meant to clear up the sinus infection caused by bacteria. Along with clearing up the infection in the sinuses, antibiotics also rob your intestinal tract of the "good bacteria" that is essential for digestion. This results in diarrhea. You should avoid spicy foods if you are on antibiotics.

Like several other medical conditions, draining sinuses require prompt action and responsible observation. Leaving the diagnosis for a later stage or neglecting the condition will invariably result in recurring sinus infections. Untreated sinus infection can cause an infection in the ear and can weaken the immune system significantly. Hence, it is best to avail prompt treatment at the right time.