Post nasal drip is when excessive mucus drips down from your nose into the back of your throat. The feeling of thick secretions in your throat may cause frequent throat clearing, coughing, and stomach upset. Post nasal drip may be caused by allergies or infection. You need to determine what is causing your post nasal drip and treat get treatment for it. If you do not, your condition may affect your appetite and cause frequent sore throats.
Instructions
1. See your doctor. You will need medical testing to determine what is causing your post nasal drip. Your doctor will visually inspect the inside of your nose to look for swelling or a blockage. He may refer you to an allergist or an ear, nose, and throat doctor for further testing.
2. Take antibiotics. If your post nasal drip is a result of a bacterial infection, you will need to take antibiotics. Antibiotics are not effective in treating infections caused by viruses. Antibiotics will get rid of your infection, eliminating post nasal drip.
3. Take an antihistamine. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, antihistamines may bring relief in the treatment of post nasal drip. Over-the-counter antihistamines dry up nasal secretions that cause post nasal drip.
4. Use steroid nasal sprays. Your doctor may prescribe steroid nasal sprays to eliminate your post nasal drip. According to the St. John Health System, the use of steroid-based nasal sprays may help decrease mucus production. A decrease in mucus production may eliminate your post nasal drip.
5. Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids will thin your mucus secretions. Thick mucus will stick to the back of your throat, causing coughing and throat clearing.
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